Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Add 1 cup water to 2 cups raisins and boil for 5 minutes and cool. Cream 1 cup shortening and add 2 cups sugar. Add 3 eggs and beat well. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla and cooled raisin mixture. Add 1 cup chopped nuts. Sift together 4 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon allspice. Add to raisin mixture and blend. Drop by teaspoonful on greased cookie sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Makes about 60 cookies.