1 lb. northern beans
4 tbsp. molasses (optional)
2 tbsp. salt
1 tbsp. dry mustard
1/2 c. brown sugar
1 c. tomato catsup
1 med. size onion, diced
1/2 lb. diced bacon
Water to cover (soupy)

Wash beans, boil for 1 hour or more. Place beans in bean pot. Pour all of the above ingredients over beans. Cover, cook slowly for 8 hours at 350 degrees, or bake 2 1/2 hours at 350 degrees then turn oven to 400 degrees for 1 hour. Watch so liquid does not evaporate. Turn off oven and let beans stay in oven all night. Next morning taste if beans need more sugar or catsup, add at this time. Be sure there is plenty of liquid when oven is turned off. Before serving, re-bake in 350 degree oven until hot.