In a large mixer bowl, beat sugar, shortening, eggs, and lemon extract or lemon juice with an electric mixer until blended. In a bowl, stir together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. Add to shortening mixture and heat thoroughly. Stir in raisins.
Drop dough from a teaspoon 2 inches apart onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree F oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool. Makes 48 cookies.