Civil War Applesauce Cookies

2 1/4 cups sugar
1 1/3 cups shortening
3 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup applesauce
6 cups sifted flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt

Cream shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla.  Add applesauce and mix well.  Add sifted dry ingredients and blend well.  Drop by heaping tablespoons on greased cookie sheet, flatten, sprinkle lightly with sugar, and bake 10 to 12 minutes at 375ºF.      Make 4 dozen.