Cook raisins in boiling water for 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening; add sugar and beat well. Add eggs and beat until well blended. Add vanilla and cooled raisins.

In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, soda, salt, and spices.

Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture; mix well.

Drop raisin cookie dough by spoonfuls on greased cookie sheet.

Bake raisin cookies at 325°F for 10 to 14 minutes, depending on size of cookies.