the person that gave me that bit of information was not an expert and suggested I keep on digging. and, that is why I am asking on here to see what others think. I have just haven't found anything on the internet that has the springs along with the woven metal on top of it. I know that old mattress springs are a "hot" item right now and this one is different than any other that I have seen on line.
Our house in NH dates back to the 1870's and has been in the family since the beginning .. so I am assuming it was purchased by a family member at some point.
I do have a rope bed in the barn as well, maybe he mixed them up when he was answering my questions about what I have.
Thanks for your response. I really appreciate you looking!