1/3 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. dark molasses
1 c. cold water
6 c. flour, sifted
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. baking soda
3 tbsp. cold water

Cream shortening and sugar, mix in molasses and water; add flour with salt and the spices. Add last soda dissolved in 3 tablespoons cold water. Chill dough, roll out and cut in large rounds. Place on a greased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake at 350 degrees until set, when touched with finger and no imprint. Bake 15 minutes.