http://www.capitalcol...GF1bmRyeSI7fQ==&pg=16
The above link shows a typical method of hanging out washing in Edinburgh. The picture is obviously old but the method was(is) still in use recently.
The 2 windows at top right show the equipment used and the one on second floor shows one with washing loaded.
It consisted of a wooden T-shaped structure which located in a socket fixed to the stone window sill. Lengths of wire or rope were run from the ends of the crossbar up to fixing points higher up the stonework. These supported the load.
Along the cross bar there were 4 pulleys with corresponding 4 attached to the wooden window sill. Between each pair of pulleys was a continuous loop of something like sashcord or thin rope.
Useage was by leaning out of window, pegging washing to the loop then moving loop round to bring the next section of cord into play.
These were remarkably effective.