Place beans, water and salt in a stockpot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours.

Add meat to the bean mixture, cover and cook for one more hour, or until beans are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

If using a crock pot, place water and all other ingredients in the pot, cover and set to high. Cook for 8 hours or until the meat is falling off the bone and the beans are tender.