1Place water and raisins in a small saucepan, and bring to boil. Boil 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.
3Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg; set aside.
4In a large bowl, cream together shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in raisins along with the liquid in which they were boiled. Blend in flour mixture, then mix in the walnuts. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheets.
5Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in preheated oven, or until firm. Remove from cookie sheets to cool on wire racks.