Split Pea Soup

I prefer yellow split peas, but they can be hard to find.  If you must, you can substitute green split peas.

1 pound yellow split peas
1 meaty hambone
1 1/2 C chopped onion
1 t salt
1/4 t fresh ground pepper
1/4 - 1/2 t dried marjoram - I use closer to a 1/2 t
1 C celery, sliced
1 C carrots. sliced

Rinse peas and combine with 2 quarts water, the ham bone, onion, salt, pepper and marjoram.  Bring to a boil.  Cover and reduce the heat so it justs simmers;  do not let it boil.  Simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until peas are dissolved.  Remove ham bone from pot and let cool slightly.  Remove the meat from the bone and cut into bite-size pieces.  Return meat to pot with celery and carrots.  Cook slowly, uncovered until vegetables are tender and soup has thickened some, about 45 minutes.