1/3 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. dark molasses
2/3 c. cold water
4 eggs
7 c. flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven 350 degrees.

Mix shortening, sugar, molasses and eggs. Stir in water. In another bowl mix dry ingredients. Blend the 2 mixtures until smooth. Batter is thick and may need to be hand stirred. Roll onto floured board and cut with cookie cutters. Place on non-stick cookie sheets. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Makes 6 to 7 dozen cookies.