First, in a saucepan, combine dates, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil.
Then, lower the heat and cook the mixture for 10 minutes, until thick.
Remove from heat.
Stir in the nuts and set aside to cool. Then, refrigerate until ready to use.
In a bowl, cream shortening until soft.
Gradually, mix in brown sugar, creaming until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, mixing well.
Sift together flour, salt, and baking soda.
Add dry ingredients to the shortening mixture in two parts. Mix well each time.
Roll the dough into a ball and refrigerate for several hours.
When the dough is very firm, divide it into two.
Roll each dough into a rectangle shape, 1/8 inch thick.
Spread the date nut mixture on top of the dough.
Roll up by the long side, like a jelly roll.
Wrap each roll in aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the oven to 375° F.
Cut the dough into 1/4″ slices (pinwheels), and place cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 10 – 12 minutes.