I am new to the site. I have an early model 11, 12 gauge shotgun passed to me by my father. How do you find information(manual, history, etc.)? I would like to have the shotgun reconditioned. What is the best direction to head? Thanks for any information and support that can be provided.

You are a lucky guy! The M11 is one on my wish list and is an important part of US Military shotgun history.
Made from 1905 until 1947 or 49 depending on who's history you read, the M11 is a direct link to J M Browning (his patent) It was used in both World Wars. Your gun should be restored, maybe you can do it yourself, there are many general restoration videos on YouTube and advice on this site too. These are strong, relatively simple shotguns and should be preserved. Remington Heritage can probably date your gun and together with your Dads history of it, the gun should be passed down your family.
Below one of my favourite pics of an M11 in an unusual configuration (sorry for poor photo)

Thank you for your information. I'll keep you informed of my progress.

A cutaway you may find of interest...………

Just love the old engineering methods and JMB's genius

I would love to have a real interesting piece of firearms history passed down to me. I hope you do restore it and please post up some pics if you do!