This was my mother's own recipe back in the 30' and 40's. She sold the recipe to Betty Crocker. I hope everyone likes it because it is or was a real moist cake and could keep real good and stay moist. Hope you all enjoy this cake as much as I have enjoyed my mother making it when I was a small boy. I am in my 70' now.

My Great grandmother used virtually the same recipe, just substituting the butter for shortening and no baking powder. She mixed the sugar & shortening first, then added the beaten mixture of baking soda & water. Then add the rest. Also a pinch of salt. Her's was very heavy, the powder in this recipe may make it lighter. I'll have to try it that way! The sour milk she made by adding a tbs of vinegar to the milk. The cake tends to dry out, so make sure to at least give it a crumb coat or protect it somehow until you've frosted it. Butter cream or peanut butter icings are wonderful with this. Sometimes I use a 'Mirror Icing' recipe if I make it in a tart shaped pan. It's like fudge!!