Fieldstone foundation

[Kerrimoneypit]

We have a 1904 house in MN. I’ve been working on the foundation re-mortaring joints, but have a question about a brick ledge. The foundation is sturdy with no bowing or structural problems. There is a 2 foot high brick ledge that runs down the north and south walls of the foundation. I don’t know the purpose of this ledge. The bricks are spalling and I am wondering if we can just remove these ledges or do I need to repair and re-mortar?

[V-Man]

Have asked any locals what the ledges might be? can you post pictures?