1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 c. dark molasses
1 c. boiling water
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. baking soda
4 c. flour

Cream shortening and sugar; add egg; beat well. Add molasses and hot water to creamed mixture. Sift dry ingredients. Add enough flour mixture to make a soft dough. Roll out on floured board. Sprinkle with sugar; cut into shapes. Bake on a greased cookie sheet, 10-12 minutes in a 350 degree oven.