2 c. raisins
1 c. water
1 tsp. baking soda
2 c. sugar
1 c. shortening or 3/4 c. lard
1 tsp. vanilla
3 eggs
4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. nutmeg

Boil together raisins and water. Let cook and add soda. Cream together sugar, shortening or lard, vanilla and eggs. Add raisins then dry ingredients. Add chopped nuts if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 to 17 minutes.