Wow! Very nice. And you know it strikes me that that bulb shape is very similar to some kinds of mushroom. Not sure what one would stick to it to make it mushroom like tho... I suppose once you decide you could sit an elf or toad on it! NOw I may have to put in some landscape lights...

I used something like in this link a few years ago when I did a trellis against a brick wall. This wasn't exactly the product, but very similar. I ordered them from Gardeners Supply, but a search didn't show that they handled them any longer. They weren't that easy to install as I recall. I think a nail in the mortar would probably be easier. Then if you remove, just fill the nail holes. I can't imagine that an adhesive would stick very well to brick - especially with the pressure of plants tugging on it. Here is a link that might be useful: Brick clips

Track rods would solve the problem, but most would look out of character in a house built in 1838. Is there a reason for not mounting the rods on the walls? I do not know of a device that would lift a curtain over an obstruction like a center support bracket. You would need a rod designed for a traverse drape.

Hi Candace - I wish I could be more help, but so far I haven't hung a rug. Many others do this regularly, though, so if you'd like I can post the question on a rug hooking forum I frequent. Some of the members are true experts, and I know you'll get a knowledgeable response. As for the cleaning, I've seen snow mentioned often. One method is to lay the rug face down on snow and tap it to release dirt into the snow. Others describe putting light, fluffy snow on the rug, letting it sit for a minute, and then sweeping it off. And then I found this for you: IVA'S RUG CLEANER - I have used this home-made rug cleaner for over 20 years. For Small Rug - 1 tsp. TIDE without bleach, 2 T white vinegar, 1 cup water For 2 9 x 12 Rugs - 1/2 cup TIDE without bleach, 2 cups white vinegar, 2 cups water Mix ingredients and whisk into a foam. Brush foam on rug lightly. Leave on rug overnight. Vacuum next day. Here are a couple of entries from Gene Shepherd's rug hooking blog. He gets deeply into every aspect of rug hooking. Rug Restoration (including providing support when hanging, I believe) Making a Sleeve to Hang a Rug Hope this helps. Good for you for wanting to save and display your family rugs. Susan