Spiced Gingerbread

1/2 c Shortening

2 3/4 c Flour

2 tb Orange rind, grated

1 ts Soda

1/2 ts Salt

1/2 c Brown sugar

1 ts Cinnamon

3 Eggs

1 ts Mace

1 c Molasses or sorghum

1 ts Nutmeg

1/4 c Orange juice

1/2 c Raisins

1/4 c Brandy, fruitjuice or coffee

George Washington's mother's recipe uses no ginger. Fruit juice or coffee may be substituted for brandy. Cream shortening and orange rind together. Add brown sugar gradually and cream thoroughly. Blend in well beaten eggs. Beat hard for 1-2 minutes to make a smooth batter. Sift flour, soda, salt and spices together and add to creamed mixture alternately with the molasses and mix of orange juice/brandy. Add raisins. Pour in well greased and floured 8" X 12" X 2-1/2" pan. bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Mrs. Harold T. Cook