Kristen, there are many kinds of green beans, depending on the area that the beans are grown in. The true southern beans are short runners, greassee, and pole beans. These beans require longer cooking. They are found in the true southern states. NC, Tn, Al, Ga, SC. I buy Fat Back) or Country ham slices and cook for about an hour. Then put the beans in and cook for about 2 hours. Checking after about an hour to see if they are tender. Be careful with salt as the meat is very salty. Do not add too much water, just enough to keep them from burning, as you want all the water to boil down. At the very end you can add new red potatoes on top of the beans. We in the south always serve this with cornbread. If you live in Florida (As I do) we do not get beans like these. Our beans are very tender and only require very little cooking with just a little olive oil and salt. Hope this helps you.
Happy Cooking,
Claudette