1/3 c. shortening
1 c. packed brown sugar
1 1/2 c. dark molasses
2/3 c. cold water
6 c. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. each allspice, cloves & cinnamon

Cream shortening and sugar. Add molasses and water; mix well. Add flour and spices. Mix well. Either chill then roll 1/2 inch thick and cut with cookie cutters. Or shape into a log 2 inches around and wrap in wax paper. Chill 2 hours, then slice 1/2 inch thick and place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.