removing wall, installing load bearing beam

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hi, i live in maine and just bought a house built in 1850. I have a room on the first floor that i'm going to take out a four ft wall. there is already a 7' opening and i want to extend it to 11'. i'm wondering how i figure out what size header or beam i will need . it has to support the second floor and a walk in attic that i may convert into living space. should i use wood or steel? if someone could let me know the calcuations for this that would be great, thanks.