Witches’ stairs are a strange but interesting design feature that became popular on TikTok a couple of years ago. Even though they have an unusual history, their name doesn’t really have to do with superstition. Instead, these stairs are a clever design choice. When made and installed correctly, they can be both useful and nice to look at!
Witches’ Stairs aren’t what they Appear.
While the stories about witches’ stairs might sound more interesting, they actually have a very practical purpose. They are really useful in homes with little space, like attics, lofts, and tiny houses. Witches’ stairs are designed to save space while still allowing you to go from one floor to another. Architects often call them “alternate tread stairs.”
How Witches’ Stairs Function
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Witches’ stairs are designed to save space in two ways. First, each step is only half as wide as regular steps, and the steps are staggered. This makes the staircase narrower than a traditional one. These smaller stairs can also be used for extra storage, like for books or displaying items. According to Scott Schuttner, who wrote “Basic Stairbuilding,” the distance between the steps on one side of an alternating-tread stair is twice the height of the rise, which gives you more space on the steps and makes them safer.
Besides being practical, witches’ stairs meet building codes and safety standards in the U.S. A standard staircase is usually 3 feet wide, while a residential witches’ staircase is typically between 27 and 30 inches wide.
Real Origins
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In 1985, a businessman named J.M. Lapeyre created a metal version of witches’ stairs. He thought these stairs could be a safe alternative to ladders in commercial and warehouse settings, especially in tight spaces where ladders might not be safe. This design is also used on commercial ships and oil rigs, and it can be called ship stairs or ship ladders, in addition to witches’ stairs and alternate tread stairs.
Misconception
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When videos of witches’ stairs first appeared on TikTok in 2021, they were linked to an urban legend. According to this legend, these staircases were built in 17th-century Massachusetts to keep witches away during the Salem witch trials because “witches can’t climb up them.” This idea has been proven false, but another rumor suggests that Thomas Jefferson came up with the design. Because of this, witches’ stairs are sometimes called Jeffersonian or Jefferson stairs. However, an original version of the design was also mentioned in a book called “Monckton’s One Plane Method Of Hand Railing and Stair Building,” published in 1888.
Debunking the Myth
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The exact origins of witches’ stairs are a bit unclear, but one thing is clear: there’s no historical evidence that they were designed to keep witches away. Historian Robin Briggs has studied many historical sources and found no mention of stairs that could disable witches. Interestingly, some people with these unique staircases also buried “witch bottles” or included dead cats in their homes for protection against witchcraft, but Briggs calls this idea “pure disinformation.” He notes that the closest belief was that putting a broom over the door would trap a witch inside.
While it’s fun to think about myths and legends, it’s also interesting to know the real history of witches’ stairs. Regardless, they offer a unique and decorative alternative to regular staircases, adding a fun and quirky touch to home design.
Last Kiss Before Child Delivery: A Man Lost His Wife And Became a Single Dad To Quadruplets!
Carlos and Erica Morales had a terrible fairytale relationship that once took place in Phoenix, Arizona. Their romance started in 2006. They initially had some linguistic obstacles, but they rapidly overcome them because they connected right away.
Following a few setbacks, they got married in 2007 and excitedly started their family-building quest. Even though they had suffered the pain of a miscarriage, they were ecstatic to learn that Erica was expecting quadruplets.
But instead of being the happiest time in their life, it turned into heartbreak. Erica unfortunately lost suddenly shortly after giving birth to their four beautiful infants, leaving Carlos to raise their quadruplets alone while grieving greatly.
Carlos showed incredible fortitude in the face of such intense grief by naming their four children—Carlos Jr., Paisley, Tracey, and Erica—in honor of his late wife.
Although becoming a single father came with its own set of difficulties, Carlos accepted it with great commitment. He became skilled at taking care of his infants and concentrated on realizing Erica’s aspirations for the future of his kids.
On this voyage, Carlos wasn’t traveling alone. Friends, relatives, and most of all Erica’s mother, Sondra Bridges, came together to support and love him during the difficult time of raising quadruplets.
Carlos came upon a message on Erica’s iPad one day while sorting through her things that detailed her goals and dreams for their kids. Carlos was greatly inspired by this finding, which motivated him to work toward making those aspirations come true.
Carlos Morales’s story is one of unfathomable loss, unwavering fortitude, and a steadfast love that endures beyond even the darkest moments of sorrow.
Carlos and his quadruplets are in our thoughts and prayers. I hope they keep finding the courage and steadfast support they require on this difficult path. A moving reminder of the enduring power of love and the relationships that mold our lives is provided by their narrative.
Please feel free to remark and share your ideas.
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