If the piano is indeed lovely for looks and tone, then it would be very foolish to start tinkering with the inside. There is simply no way that an amateur, no matter how dedicated, can deal with the intricacy and delicacy of a fine old piano.

You should get in touch with a piano tuner, preferably a trained one, and get an estimate on restoration of the piano. You probably should get a device that controls the humidity in it, as well. The proper humidity will help a lot to preserve the piano and keep it in tune.

I have a piano from 1906 which has been professionally restored, and I love it. Even with professional work, it cost far less than the thousands of dollars which dealers are charging for fine pianos now.