Clam Chowder with cream

1 lb potato , peeled 1/2 tablespoon butter 3/4 cup finely chopped onion 1 small garlic clove , very finely minced 1 cup half-and-half 1/2 cup whipping cream 4[...]

2 cans chopped clams 4 onions , diced 2 heads celery , diced 3 lbs bacon , diced 4 ounces shallots , diced 4 ounces garlic , diced 1/2 cup thyme 6 bay leaves[...]