1Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease one cookie sheet.
2Mix together the molasses, brown sugar, water and shortening.
3Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, allspice, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. Add to sugar mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
4Roll dough 1/4 inch thick on floured board. Cut with floured gingerbread cutter. Place about 2 inches apart on cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool and decorate with frosting.