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.
Antiquated device that simplified our work
How to Use a Stapler Remover
Stapler removers are essentially used to remove staples from documents without creating any mess. Imagine two sets of curving metal jaws that, when applied pressure, grasp the staple and pull it straight out of the paper. It’s quick and accurate, much like an uppercut in boxing. However, this little device is not a one-trick pony; it has repeatedly shown its value by finding its way into a variety of industries.
Have you used it for anything other removing staples? It has been adapted by some inventive brains to open keyrings or even as a temporary crab cracker. How adaptable!
The Stapler Remover’s Legacy
Beyond just being a useful tool, the stapler remover is a monument to the inventiveness of bygone eras. Not only are these small gems useful, but their retro style also attracts collectors and fans of antique office supplies. These removers, which are made sturdy and occasionally have beautiful accents, reflect the attention to detail of a bygone era.
In the present day, stapler removers remain in use even with the digitization of documentation. They remain a favorite in homes and offices due to their classic style and hassle-free staple extraction process. Furthermore, looking at an old-fashioned stapler remover is like taking a sentimental walk down memory lane; it reminds us of the history of workplace technology and the never-ending pursuit of simplifying daily duties.
In summary
Although the antique stapler remover may appear to be a minor component in the larger office tool system, it has an intriguing history. It was invented in the early 20th century and made the difficult operation of removing staples seem easy. Furthermore, despite the fact that enthusiasts now collect it, its functionality and design are still relevant today. Let’s give a nod to this timeless, skillfully designed instrument that reminds us that often the simplest solution is the most elegant one, even while we delve headfirst into new technological marvels.
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