2 c. Northern beans
1 ham bone or pieces of ham
4 or 5 lg. potatoes
1 lg. onion
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vinegar
1 c. milk
Pepper to taste

Cover beans with cold water and soak overnight. In the morning drain, cover again with cold water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, stir in soda, drain and rinse twice in cold water. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Add salt and simmer about 2 hours. Add ham bone or pieces of ham to cook while preparing vegetables. Cook until vegetables and beans are done. Add vinegar and stir well before adding milk and pepper, if desired.