I found this in my "From Amish and Mennonites Kitchens" cookbook..you could add the raisins...

makes 8 dozen

Molasses cookies

1 cup shortening
1/2 lb. light brown sugar
1 pint dark molasses
1 pint buttermilk
6 cups flour
1 Tblsp baking soda

Cream shortening and sugar. Add molasses and buttermilk. Stir in flour and baking soda. Drop in large dollops from teaspoon onto cookie sheet. Bake at 375degrees for 8-10 mins.

Variations; cookies may be glazed by brushing tops with egg yolk before baking.

Add 1 tsp ginger and 1 tsp cinnamon with flour and soda.