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.
Four boys singing in church is the funniest thing I’ve seen. Keep your eyes on the boy in the vest
I must say that this was one of the funniest funny videos I’ve ever seen. and trust me—I’ve been here! Bravo to the gifted boys that assembled this.
I must say that this was one of the funniest funny videos I’ve ever seen. and trust me—I’ve been here! Bravo to the gifted boys that assembled this.
The Christmas scene is set against the perfect backdrop of a nicely adorned stage. Every audience was anticipating what they thought would be a fun, but conventional, holiday church service.
The four lads show up on stage dressed to impress in white shirts, black slacks, and ties. Then it takes place! Comedy follows! It’s not like you could miss the guy wearing the vest and his entertaining actions, so keep an eye on him!
Every minute that goes by, this traditional gospel song gets hilarious. It’s clear the boys are having a blast. The crowd is giggling uncontrollably. These four lads brought the church to tears of laughter with their exuberant entertainment and worship!
A lot of people think that funny clean comedy is extinct these days. These children, however, are not. They’re fantastic. My day was truly made by them. To join in on the fun, watch this funny Christmas performance. utterly wonderful! It was hard for me to stop giggling!
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To be quite honest, my friend, there’s just nothing quite like good, clean humor. the kind that captures the pure joy and spontaneity of life instead of depending on cheap tricks or nasty jokes. Watching these boys perform is like traveling back in time to happier, carefree days when fun was unrestricted and laughing was abundant. These boys truly nailed it.
Now, I really do mean it when I say that the performance was hilarious. The boy wearing the vest is the main attraction; he appears to have no boundaries between his physical appearance and his sense of humor. He is nothing short of brilliant in the way he combines earnest worship with lighthearted pranks.
Imagine a stage with the calm background of a Christmas scene, and then all of a sudden… A hilarious turn of events that leaves everyone clenching their sides. The collective gasp that occurs when the guys’ performance takes an unexpected turn is nearly audible.
Not only are the kids’ antics funny, but the audience’s and the choir’s response makes this a very memorable moment. The room exudes an authentic warmth and happiness that connects with visitors on a personal level. Isn’t it wonderful when comedy can unite people in such a way?
Let’s also discuss the video itself: amazing! This type of material is the kind that gains popularity for all the right reasons. It’s cheerful, invigorating, and ideal for the holidays. Watching these boys bring joy and happiness into a traditional atmosphere makes you grin.
There’s no disputing that these days, it’s uncommon to find this kind of amusement. It serves as a lovely reminder that the most profound happiness can occasionally come from the simplest things. So, believe me when I say that this video is just what you need if you’re having a bad day or just need a good laugh.
These four lads are a brightness in a world when pessimism and doom frequently triumph over comedy. They serve as a reminder of the healing, uniting, and uplifted effects of laughter. See how much fun life can be when we don’t take ourselves too seriously? Just keep an eye on that boy wearing the vest.
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