What Are Witch Windows? The Curious Slanted Windows of New England
If you’ve ever taken a scenic drive through Vermont or rural parts of New England, you may have noticed something unusual on older homes: a narrow window set at a sharp diagonal, nestled between the rooflines. These odd features are known as witch windows—and they come with a blend of folklore, function, and Yankee ingenuity.
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What Is a Witch Window?
A witch window, sometimes called a coffin window, is a narrow, rectangular window installed at a 45-degree angle, typically located on the gable end of a house. Unlike standard vertical or horizontal windows, witch windows are tilted, often appearing to float awkwardly between two roof pitches. These windows are most often seen in 19th-century Vermont farmhouses but can also be found scattered across other New England states.
Why Do Witch Windows Exist?
There’s no single explanation for the origin of these windows, but over time, several practical and mythological theories have emerged.
1. Practical Construction Solution
- Maximizing space: In older homes with complex rooflines, angled windows were a smart way to bring in light and air where traditional windows wouldn’t fit.
- Ventilation and sunlight: Witch windows allowed attic or upper floor rooms to breathe and brighten without major structural adjustments.
- Frugal building methods: It's believed that some builders reused spare windows from previous renovations or other parts of the house, fitting them in wherever they could—angle and all.
2. The Folklore Behind the Name
- Witch deterrent myth: According to local legend, witches couldn’t fly through slanted openings, making angled windows a supernatural defense system.
- Coffin window tale: Some stories suggest that these windows allowed coffins to be removed from upper rooms when stairways were too narrow—though historians largely consider this myth more imaginative than factual.
3. A Quirky Architectural Choice
- New England thrift: Many historians believe witch windows are simply a reflection of Vermont’s resourceful and cost-conscious approach to home design. Why let a perfectly good window go unused when it can still be functional—even at an angle?
Where Can You Find Witch Windows?
Witch windows are mostly concentrated in:
- Vermont – Especially in rural areas and historic farmhouses.
- Other New England states – Including New Hampshire and parts of Maine.
- Mid-1800s homes – Built during the peak era of this quirky design solution.
Are Witch Windows Still Used Today?
While they’re not common in modern construction, witch windows continue to capture the imagination of architects and homeowners alike. In fact, some people are now restoring or even recreating them for:
- Historical accuracy – Preserving the authenticity of older homes.
- Unique design appeal – Giving character to otherwise traditional exteriors.
- Conversation starters – Few architectural features spark curiosity quite like a tilted window.
Final Thoughts: Folklore or Function?
While the idea of angled windows keeping witches at bay adds a whimsical charm, the more likely reason for their existence lies in practicality. Whether they were used to improve ventilation, make use of spare parts, or solve architectural challenges, witch windows are a creative solution that tells a story of both superstition and smart design.
So next time you pass through Vermont or New England’s countryside, keep your eyes peeled for these quirky windows. They might not ward off witches—but they’ll definitely catch your attention.