Wiccan last names are a fascinating aspect of Wiccan culture and traditions. In Wicca, individuals often choose a magickal name to represent their spiritual identity. This name is typically kept private and used only within magical circles or rituals. However, some Wiccans also opt to adopt a Wiccan last name to further solidify their connection to the faith. Wiccan last names can be derived from a variety of sources. Some individuals choose to take on the name of a deity or mythological figure that holds personal significance to them.

What Are Witch Windows

New England has a lot of exclusive and strange customs and superstitions that have been a perennial staple of our culture since the first settlers landed here. Although many have faded with time into obscurity, some not only still thrive but can also be seen as one travels the highways and byways of the region. One of these customs can be seen mainly in Vermont and is known as the “Witch Window.” The origins of this name are lost to obscurity, but the strange slanted window easily distinguishes their existence between the eave of the home and addition just below, running parallel with the roof angle.

Witch windows originated in the Green Mountain State sometime around the 19th century. The name actually refers to a superstition that witches cannot maneuver their broomsticks sideways, so by placing the window at a 45-degree angle, a witch cannot enter your home through that window. This seems relatively weak in theory as all the other windows in the home are installed at the usual angles. If a witch really wanted to enter the home, it could easily pick another opening more suitable for entry.

Another term for these examples of peculiar architecture is “coffin windows,” which is even more unusual than the former. This name came from the thought that rather than lugging a heavy-laden coffin down the winding staircase of the home, the angled window would allow the coffin to be slid right side up out the window onto the roof of the addition and carefully lowered to the ground. This seems rather irrational in thought and practicality, especially for Vermonters who are known for their common sense and ingenuity. If someone were to die upstairs, would it not be easier to bring the deceased downstairs to the coffin rather than carry the coffin upstairs to the dead?

Many years ago, I saw my first witch window while traveling along Route 25 in Vermont. It struck me as odd at first, but its purpose immediately seemed as plain and evident as could be. The first story addition may have covered the old window. Thus, being practical and not having access to the big box stores we have today, the owner reinstalled the window to easily fit in the angled space between the addition and eave, instead of building a dormer for an upright window. Why do you ask? Easy answer; to let light into the upstairs room that would otherwise be dark after the addition was put in place.

The expansion of the home led to having the second-floor window covered by the new roof. Vermont farmers would not have wasted anything if they could help it. Materials were hard to come by, and that window was going to be used. The only place it would fit was where you see them today.

So, we have superstition, custom, and practicality. Is it all three, or just one reason these amusing additions exist, mainly on Vermont homes? If you happen upon a house with a witch window and the owner is outside, stop and ask him about the witch window. Don’t be surprised if he looks at you with a severe yet sincere expression on his face as he asks, “witch window?” Seeing one while driving the roads of Vermont is almost as exciting as seeing a moose or bear, but a heck of a lot safer.

The Bizarre Story Behind This Common Home Amenity In Vermont Will Astound You

Not many things are located close together in Vermont, so needless to say we spent a lot of time in the car as a kid. My brothers and sisters and I played all sorts of car games, but our favorite by far was Punch Buggy. The object of the game is to keep your eyes peeled and try to find a Volkswagon Beetle on the road, and the first person to spot the VW Bug punches another person in the arm and yells “Punch Buggy!” Well, while researching this article my own kids invented a game similar to Punch Buggy, thankfully without the punches. The new game is called Witch Window. Don’t know what a witch window in Vermont is? Well, I’ll bet you do…

Witch windows in Vermont are the windows you see on old farmhouses that are positioned diagonally, and here’s why Vermonters began calling these tilted windows “Witch Windows.” Enjoy!

A Witch Window is a window placed in the gable-end wall of a house and rotated approximately 45 degrees leaving it slanted diagonally.

The name "witch window" comes from an old superstition that witches can not fly through a window if it's tilted. Therefore, if you had a house with a witch's window, you could live without fear that a witch could soar into the room on a broomstick at any moment. One could say that there are some weird things about Vermont.

The windows are also known as coffin windows, although it is unclear if the name stuck because this is how they removed the bodies of the deceased to avoid steep staircase mishaps, or because the window itself has a coffin-like shape.

A few other names for these quirky windows are Vermont Windows, Sideways Windows or Lazy Windows for their orientation, but Witch Window is by far the most common term used today. Pictured is a fine example of a witch window in Craftsbury.

This technique of adding a window at this orientation allows a builder to fit a standard full-sized window into the long, narrow wall space between two adjacent rooflines, not to mention avoiding spending extra time and money buying a custom-sized window frame.

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When an addition or wing is added to a house there may be very little wall space available in the gable end to install a window. Adding dormers can be problematic since they could disturb the roof design and structure.

Dormer windows are not often used in older Vermont architecture as they can unfortunately leave a room very cold. These lovely and classic dormers and mansard slate roof (c 1885) are located at 94-106 Maple Street in Burlington and are part of the Battery Street Historic District in Burlington.

On this house, the clapboards are hung at an angle to match the window. This will make it easier for the builders to cut wood as well as weatherproof the area, both of which make the construction easier and more cost-effective.

Since the end space is sometimes the only option for a window on the upper floor, a solution had to be created. Vermonters, ever so resourceful, found a way to meet their needs.

Witch windows are found almost exclusively in Vermont, and most often in 19th-century farmhouses. They are more commonly spotted in the central and northern parts of VT.

An alternative explanation for these quirky windows is that they are placed diagonally so the hot air which rises during the summer will have a place to escape. This is unlikely the reason, as we would see many more witch windows placed in other areas of the house. Besides, summer in Vermont isn’t THAT hot!

Were witches flying into homes on broomsticks such a nuisance that these windows were specially designed to keep them out? Whether witchcraft in Vermont was part of the reasoning behind these windows or not, no one can doubt the interesting element that these stories add to the history of Vermont. Even if you had heard of a witch window in Vermont, did you know why it’s called that? Or did this provide some insight into these perplexing diagonal mysteries? Let us know!

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Some individuals choose to take on the name of a deity or mythological figure that holds personal significance to them. For example, someone who connects deeply with the goddess Aphrodite may choose to take on the last name "Aphrodite" or a variation thereof. Others may choose a last name that reflects a specific element or natural force that resonates with them.

More to Explore

witch window in Vermont

What are the scariest haunted attractions in Vermont?

Vermont has plenty of fun and scary haunted attractions. But to list some of the scariest, consider visiting the Eddy House in Chittendon. This home housed a mysterious and ghostly family with ties to spirts and other creepy things. The Eddy House is now the location of the High Life Ski Club Lodge. Another haunted place in Vermont is The Quechee Inn at Marshland Farm. Many people have claimed to be haunted by the former owner's ghosts throughout the property.

What are the most haunted places in Vermont?

No list of the most haunted places in Vermont can exist without discussing Emily's Bridge in Stowe. Legend has it that this bridge is haunted by Emily's ghost. According to the legend, Emily died a gruesome death on the bridge and her ghost continues to haunt people to this day. So beware if you venture across this spooky bridge. Another scary and haunted place in Vermont to visit is the Glastonbury Mountain in Glastonbury, Vermont. Apparently there have been several unsolved disappearances of hikers and wanders on the mountain. Go at your own risk.

Can I visit any abandoned places in Vermont?

Yes, there are numerous abandoned places you can visit in Vermont. First, it is important to always check before going to any place that the abandoned spot is safe and legal to visit before attempting to visit such a place. If you are interested in finding cool abandoned places to check out throughout Vermont, take a look at this list of 15 abandoned places in Vermont. Not all these places on the list are accessible but it is a good start to find what can and cannot be visited.

What is a Witch Window?

Katie Barton is a home improvement freelance writer. For as long as she can remember, she's had a passion for making homes beautiful. She specializes in cleaning, organizing, and home improvement projects.

A witch window is a standard window installed at an angle on the gable end of a home. They’re most notably found in Vermont and areas of New England. Other names for these windows include the Vermont window, coffin window, casket window, and Vermont witch window.

For instance, someone who feels a strong affinity for the ocean may select the last name "Sea" or "Waves." These nature-inspired last names serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness between the individual and the natural world. Additionally, Wiccans may create a last name based on their craft or magical practices. Those who specialize in herbology and healing may adopt a last name such as "Herbwise" or "Greenleaf," while individuals with a focus on divination may choose a last name like "Seer" or "Oracle." It is important to note that the adoption of a Wiccan last name is a personal choice and not a requirement of the faith. Some Wiccans may prefer to solely use their given last name, while others may choose to adopt a Wiccan last name as a way to further embrace their spiritual path. In conclusion, Wiccan last names are an intriguing aspect of Wiccan culture, allowing individuals to deepen their connection to the faith and express their spiritual identity. Whether derived from deities, natural elements, or magical practices, these names serve as a unique expression of one's Wiccan beliefs and practices..

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