Soft and spicy molasses cookies

In New England before the Civil War, the first Tuesday of June was set aside as Muster or Training Day. The trainees were followed into the area by women and children carrying lunch baskets; one food being muster "gingerbread," actually a large, soft, and spicy molasses cookie. This recipe was sent to us by Charlotte Scripture of Concord, N.H.

Easy to make, these drop cookies are equally enjoyable for dessert, picnics, or after-school snacks with a glass of milk. They keep well if stored airtight and can also be frozen. Muster Cookies 2 cups whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon each cinnamon and ginger 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 egg 1/2 cup molasses 1/2 cup sour cream

Mix flour, soda, salt, and spices and set aside. Cream butter, sugar, and egg together until fluffy. Beat in molasses. Stir in dry ingredients and sour cream.

Drop by slightly rounded tablespoonsful 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake in preheated 375 degree F. oven 12 to 15 minutes. Remove at once to cake racks to cool. Makes about 2 dozen large cookies.