1-1/4 cups hot water
1 cup chopped dates
1 tsp. baking soda
Pour hot water over the dates and baking soda; set aside.
1 cup sugar
½ cup shortening
2 cups flour
2 eggs
¼ tsp. salt
¾ tsp. baking powder
Mix all together including the date mixture. Pour into a greased 9×13 pan. Bake at 350º for 35 to 40 minutes.