1 c. shortening
2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
3 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. chopped dates
1/4 c. maraschino cherries
1 tbsp. vanilla
1 tbsp. hot water

Cream shortening, sugar. Add eggs; beat well. Sift together dry ingredients; add to creamed mixture. Soften dates in hot water; stir dates and cherries into dough along with vanilla. Mix well.

Divide dough into 3 parts and roll in wax paper or foil. Chill several hours or longer. Slice and place on greased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Makes about 4 1/2 dozen.