War Cake

During WWII, many traditional cooking supplies were in short supply. Eggs, butter, white sugar, among them. My grandmother somehow got this recipe then (there were government programs and fliers that helped people learn new ways to cook for their families). We made it for years after the war. It remained a family staple. The cake is great!

1 ½ c. brown sugar
2 c. water
2 c. raisins
2t. cinnamon
1 t. allspice
½ t. each, cloves and nutmeg
1 t. salt
3 T. shortening (this is the original ingredient. You may substitute another fat)

Boil all ingredients for 5 minutes. Cool. Add 3 c. flour (ww is good) and 2 t. soda. Put in a 9x13 pan. Bake at 325 for 40 minutes.