Clam Chowder without sauce

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 -4 slices bacon , cooked crisp and broken 2 large yellow onions , finely chopped 1/2 cup chicken broth 2 medium potatoes , cubed 1 teaspoon salt 1/8[...]