CRUST:

3/4 c. soft shortening (part butter)
1 c. brown sugar
1 3/4 c. sifted flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. oatmeal

DATE FILLING:

3 c. cut up dates
1/4 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. water

Prepare filling by mixing together cut up dates, sugar and water. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 10 minutes). Cool. Make crust by thoroughly mixing together shortening and brown sugar. Sift together flour, soda and salt, stir in oatmeal and mix thoroughly. Place one half of this mixture in greased and floured oblong pan 9 x 13 x 2 inches. Press and flatten with hands to cover bottom of pan. Spread with cooled filling. Cover with remaining crumbs mixture, patting lightly. Bake until lightly browned. While warm, cut into bars and remove from pan. 400 degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes.