newport model 12ga wn shotgun

Question
i have a newport model wn 12ga shotgun serial number is 497278 can u tell me when it was made please.

Answer
Hello Belinda Gough.
  Your Newport Model WN 12gauge shotgun was manufactured for the Hibbard, Spencer and Bartlett Hardware Company in the early 1900's. To the best of my knowledge, there were three manufacturing companies that could have made it. Crescent Arms, J. Stevens Arms, and H&B Folsum. If the serial number is on the metal behind the trigger guard, it most likely was made by Crescent Arms. Some of these early shotguns were made for 2 9/16" shells loaded with black powder, or low pressure smokeless powder, so modern shells will not fire safely in them. I strongly suggest having it checked by a competent licensed gunsmith.
  I hope this helps answer your question. Charles Gage