Beam Removal?

Wondering if anyone has any suggestions on the function of this horizontal beam in the photos. Would like to remove it, but thought I'd ask around first. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank You.[IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1655&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1654&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1653&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1656&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1657&stc=1[/IMG]
I took the decorative wood panelling off and see it consists of two 2x6's nailed to blocking in between the vertical studs. what is this actually doing?

My first guess would be that it's an attempt at a tie beam but if it terminates at the stairs I don't think that'll be correct. Can you get hold of the plans?

If anything, outside vertical wall stabilizing.

I do not have access to the plans sorry. Here's a few more pictures with a little more of the blocking revealed.
[IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1658&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1659&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1660&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1661&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1662&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1663&stc=1[/IMG][IMG]http://www.engineersedge.com/engineering-forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1664&stc=1[/IMG]

I really think it's an attempt at a tie beam. I'd fully recommend getting in touch with a local engineer before removing it. You may need to do additional works to maintain the stability of your wall once the beam is gone. It may turn out the tie was redundant and it's fine but it's always best to get a local professional involved.