1 c. sugar
1 c. shortening
1 c. dark molasses
2 eggs
4 c. sifted flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 c. raisins (optional)

Cream sugar and shortening. Add molasses and unbeaten eggs. Mix well. Sift dry ingredients and stir into first mixture. Put 1/2 cup into small bowl. Dip fingers into sugar. Pinch off small amount of dough. Form ball and roll into sugar. Place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Makes approximately 80 cookies.