Heat the oven to 325°F. Cover a 15 x 20-inch sheet pan with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening and sugar.
Whisk in the egg and molasses; mix until combined.
Add the flour mixture and mix until completely combined.
Stir in the raisins.
Using 1/2 cup of dough, roll into a 7-inch log. Make 6 logs and place them on the cookie sheet 2 – 3 inches apart. (They will spread a lot when they bake.)
Bake for 20 – 22 minutes. The centers will be very soft but will firm up as they cool. Do not overcook or they will be crunchy, not chewy.
Cool for 5 minutes on the sheet pan then transfer to a wire rack. When completely cooled, cut each piece into 3 bars.