New England Clam Chowder Recipe

Name: New England Clam Chowder Recipe
Ingredients: 1/2 pound salt pork; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup); 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (about 1 cup); 1 cup water or clam juice; 2 1/2 pounds live cherrystone or littleneck clams (see note); 1 quart whole milk; 1 1/2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 2 bay leaves; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream; Oyster crackers, for serving