1 c. shortening (1/2 marg.)
2 c. sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 lb. dates, cut up
1 lb. orange slices, cut up
1 c. nuts
1 1/2 c. buttermilk

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and beat until creamy. Add vanilla. Mix together dry ingredients. Add alternately with buttermilk. Then add nuts, dates and orange slices. Put in 3 greased pans. Bake at 300 degrees for 1 hour and 45 minutes.