Wall Removal

If the wall runs parallel to the joist it is probably (note: probably) not load bearing. If it is perpendicular, it most likely is. This is a rough guide, not engineering since I can't see the wall. Get a contractor, engineer, framer, or someone that will know for sure before you do anything.

And if it runs parallel to the joist, but not directly under the joist, it's definitely not load bearing since sheetrock doesn't bear much of a load (as those of us who have stepped through a ceiling will attest)...

Older houses can be difficult to understand - particularly if wall and ceiling finish are in place. I'd opt for the more expensive, of Mr. Pawlowski's options - an engineer. Make sure the engineer has experience with wood frame structures and with older structures. A Stoy: There were two engineers in town that looked at an old building in which I was interested. Both were excellent engineers, but with different experience. One said tear it down while the other said a minor repair was needed. The building is still in place and doing well. TB

Either hire a structural engineer, to look at it, or just assume that it's load-bearing, and put in an appropriate beam and posts. The latter is likely to cost about the same as the former.