2 pkg. dry yeast (not fast rising)
1/2 c. warm water
7 c. flour
1/4 c. powdered milk
4 c. quite warm water
3/4 c. dark molasses
2 tbsp. shortening
1 tsp. salt
1 c. sugar

Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup water and let "rest." Cut shortening into the flour and blend in the other dry ingredients. Make a well in the middle and add the 4 cups water. Add the molasses and the yeast mixture. Mix well. Cover with waxed paper and let rise until doubled in size. Knead and let rise again.

Form into loaves (four). Place in buttered loaf pans. Brush tops with soft butter and let rise again. Bake in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake about 40 to 45 minutes. Butter tops. Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove from pans and let cool on sides for 15 minutes, then right side up.