Why Are Old Chimneys Crooked? The Witches’ Crook
Updated: Sep 1
Why are some old chimneys crooked? Sometimes the bend was built intentionally so the flue could travel from a centrally located fireplace to the proper place on the roof. According to folklore, these bends were also meant to keep witches from flying down the chimney, which is how they became known as a “witches’ crook” or “witches’ bend.”
But there is an important difference between a chimney that was built with a bend and one that has shifted over time. Cracks, separation from the house, loose masonry, or a new lean can indicate a structural problem that should be inspected. After more than 32 years in masonry and historic restoration, I would never assume a crooked chimney is safe based on appearance alone.
Legend has it that the witches crook or witches bend in chimneys were born out of a fear of supernatural creatures like witches. It was believed that witches could only fly in a straight line, so building a crooked chimney would prevent them from entering the house—talk about a unique form of protection! While this story may have some folklore flair, the real reason behind these crooked chimneys lies in the quest for warmth.
Imagine a time when central heating was just a dream—fireplaces were the heart of the home. To keep the house cozy, fireplaces were strategically built in the center of the house. However, on the outside, they needed to blend seamlessly into the design and exit the roof properly. They often got into the attic and realized the chimney was a little off-target. They had no laser levels or modern techniques as we have today, so they would build the rest of the chimney in a lean or a bend (sometimes both) to reach the targeted area of the roof. Other times, as in the case of the chimney pictured, the family was wealthy and hired the architect to design the bends to let the chimney exit the roof where they would be hidden from the main road. The process required skill and creativity, masons had to navigate the twists and turns of the chimney without the aid of modern tools.
The crooked chimney stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears. While some may see it as an architectural quirk, others appreciate it as a piece of history. So, next time you find yourself face to face with a witches crook, embrace it as a unique feature that adds character to the building.
If you own an older masonry home, you may also want to read why painting historic brick can cause expensive damage.
Built Crooked or Becoming Crooked?
A historic bend may be part of the chimney’s original construction. New movement is different. Cracks, loose or missing mortar, separation from the house, leaning above the roofline, or water entering around the chimney should not be ignored.
If you are unsure whether your chimney’s shape is historic character or a developing masonry problem, I can help you understand what you are looking at.
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