Mix shortening, sugar and eggs well. Stir in soured milk. Blend dry ingredients; stir in. Stir in pecans, cherries and dates. Chill at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 375 degrees.
Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough about 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Place a pecan half on each cookie. Bake 8-10 minutes. Makes about 8 dozen cookies.