1 c. shortening
3/4 c. white sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
2 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 3 tbsp. boiling water
1/2 c. molasses
1 egg, beaten light
3 c. flour (makes quite stiff)
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon

Cream together 1 cup of shortening and 3/4 cup white sugar; add 2 teaspoons vanilla and soda dissolved in boiling water. Add molasses, egg then flour, salt and cinnamon. Mix well. Roll out on floured board and cut in desired shapes and bake in 350 degree oven. Check to be sure they don't get too brown. Makes about 2 dozen cookies.