Makes 3 dozen cookies
Recipe courtesy of Frances Ford via Susan Ford
Preheat oven to 350F.
Cream together the shortening and sugars. Add the egg and beat until light and fluffy.
Sift together 2 cups flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda and salt, and, with the mixer on low, gradually add the flour to the creamed mixture until a stiff dough forms. Use the reserved half cup of flour as necessary. Refrigerate dough for twenty minutes.
Pour remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar onto a plate. Form dough into 1-inch balls, roll in sugar, and place on cookie sheets. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes, until browned and crackled on top.