Put hambone in large Dutch Oven pot and fill 3/4 full with water. Bring to a boil, uncovered, cook for 2 1/2 hours, turning bone and pulling off meat as it softens at least every half hour.
If you are using the traditional pie crust for the noodles, make this now, so it will have a chance to dry before cutting and adding to the pot pie.
After 2 1/2 hours, remove bone, finish cutting off meat and discard any skin or fat in the pot. Add approximately 2 cups water to broth. Bring to boil. Add onion, carrots, and meat. Cover and cook slowly for 10 minutes.
Add potatoes, celery, and pie crust or noodles. If broth does not cover entirely, add just enough water to cover. Cover pot, boil 10 minutes. Turn off heat.
Uncover and mix thoroughly. Check noodles, they or the pie crust should be al dente. Cover the pot and let set for 15 minutes before serving. You may need to reheat slightly before serving. This recipe is over 100 years young and the ingredients etc. are approximate. It can be made by seasoned or inexperienced cooks.