Sprinkle figs, unpeeled, with baking soda, and cover with boiling water; slosh up and down, and drain well. Spray with clear water and drain. Place figs in large stainless or granite pot. Pour sugar on top and allow to sit overnight. Next day place on low fire and watch until syrup develops. Stir very carefully, so as not to break the figs, until sugar is dissolved. Boil to 222x-224x. Allow to sit overnight to plump. Next morning bring to the simmer, place in sterilized jars, seal, process in boiling water bath for 20 minutes. (Or place in fridge and eat). Makes 7 pints if it's done precisely right. ;-