I would be surprised if that secondary brick layer the stove pipe is coming out of isn't covering up an open faced fireplace that an insert could pop right into. Stoves were expensive compared with an open fireplace and was probably an update. Design wise an insert gives more space to your room but is less efficient than a stve at heating, with a stove you do have to worry about people (kids) getting burnt. You can also build too much heat with one and scorch the ceiling and near by items.
Either way you need to have a chimney sweep come out to clean and inspect and give his professional advice first thing.

No way that is original. Just my opinion.

i'd wave my magic wand on that one and have it gone. even if it were installed by the queen of sheba.

I agree that that layer of brick could possibly hide an opening but in old houses there was often very little insulation so a wood stove might be nice in the winter but either way a pro is needed to make sure the chimnet y is in good shape etc

I was thinking that the second layer was put in later. The brick coloration does not match.This is not the original fireplace from the home I do know that. This portion was built later on. The original fireplace is located behind a wall in the dining room. I'm going to have a professional come out and look at it. I'm hoping we can change it. Here is a picture of this brick work carried down into the basement.