1 1/2 c. hot water
3 c. raisins
4 tsp. baking soda
4 tbsp. butter
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. white sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt
4 c. flour
2 lg. eggs, beaten
Nuts, cherries, dates, coconut or whatever desired (optional)

Pour hot water over raisins, stir in soda and mix well. Add next 3 ingredients. Add vanilla, salt and flour. Add eggs last. Beat well.

Grease 3 large (48 oz.) juice cans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours. Cool upside down on rack. Cool completely before wrapping in foil.