1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. shortening
1/3 c. molasses (sorghum is best)
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 egg, well beaten
3 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. ginger
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt

Cream together sugar and shortening. Add molasses, buttermilk and well beaten egg. Sift together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture; mix well. Roll out as for pastry. Cut to fit 9" greased and floured cake pans. Make 6 to 8 layers.