Load-bearing newel post?

Hi all, We recently purchased a house that was originally built in 1923, and remodeled in 1986 (gutted to the studs, major addition out back, new mechanicals, etc). We are attempting to mitigate its builder-grade 80s styling with more period-appropriate updates. As part of the updates, I'm modifying the staircase to create exposed treads. Example: http://img2-2.timeinc.net/toh/i/step-by-step/11/11-baluster/baluster-x.jpg Before demo: looking up at stairs