Cream shortening and sugar in a large bowl on medium speed of electric mixer until light and fluffy
Add molasses and egg
Mix well
Combine flour, baking soda, spices, and salt
Add to creamed mixture
Mix well, and then stir in raisins
Cover and chill for 1 hour for easy shaping
Shape dough into 1" balls
Roll in sugar to coat well
Place on a greased cookie sheet
Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until set
The cookies will flatten and crack after baking