Probably not. In the old days they did hang pots over the fire though...
You are quite correct. My father built a log cabin (as a hobby I guess) and the fireplace had hinged arms that one could swing out over the fire or towards the floor. One attached pots on them (by their handles) and was able to cook or serve quite handily.
I was told by an old timer that when you get your fire up and going you should be able to regulate or close back your damper. Is this true because every time I've tried this all I get is smoke in the room, but I've never tried ti with this method of fire building.