1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup molasses
2 Tbsp. vinegar
5 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 to 3 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground cloves

Cream shortening and sugar.  Beat in egg, molasses, and vinegar.  Sift 
together dry ingredients and blend into creamed mixture. 
Chill 3 hours.
Roll dough on lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thick.  Cut in shapes.
Place 1 inch apart on cookie sheet.  Bake at 375F for 5 to 6 minutes.
Cool slightly on cookie sheet and then remove to rack.

Makes about 5 dozen.