1/3 c. shortening
1 c. brown sugar
1 1/2 c. dark molasses

Mix together thoroughly. Stir in 1/2 cup cold water. Sift together and stir in:

6 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon

Stir in:

2 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 3 tsp. cold water

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Chill dough, roll out very thick. Place cut outs far apart on lightly greased baking sheet. Bake until no imprint remains when touched lightly with finger. Bake for about 15 to 18 minutes.