The Night Before: Soak beans OVERNIGHT in cold water. Drain and pick out debris and broken beans. The Day of: Put beans, ham bone and chopped onion, carrots and celery in a large pot (or crock pot). Cover with water and bring to a boil (or set on low or high if using a crock pot). Reduce heat and simmer until beans are cooked and ham falls off the bones, Add seasonings. Serve with cornbread.