A traverse rod system for manipulating one or more hanging objects is provided. The traverse rod system includes a hollow longitudinally extending tube having an opening that extends along an upper length of the tube as well as a number of rings that at least partially encircle the tube and that are directly or indirectly coupled with one or more hanging objects. A cord is suspended within the tube and secured by one or more cord carriers, each having a top portion that attaches to one of the rings and a bottom portion that is freely suspended through the opening and into the hollow tube such that other than the cord and the cord carriers, an interior of the hollow tube remains substantially free of structure relating to the traverse rod system. Movement of the cord causes the cord carriers to traverse an interior of the tube while the attached rings traverse an exterior of the tube. As a result, the hanging object(s) move in connection with the cord and the cord carriers in a desired direction or directions.