Clam Chowder with water

8 lbs small quahogs or 8 lbs cherrystone clams 4 slices bacon , cut into 1/2 inch pieces 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cups finely chopped yellow onions 1[...]

3 slices bacon , chopped 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 stalks celery , chopped 1/4 yellow onion , finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1 bay leaf 3 red[...]