Add cornmeal and whole wheat flour to white flour, salt, baking powder, and soda.

Add molasses, buttermilk, and raisins.

Beat thoroughly.

Half-fill 3 greased 1-pound coffee cans.

Cover tightly with foil and steam 3 hours on a rack in a covered pan, using only a small amount of boiling water (no more than one-fourth up the sides).

Replace water as necessary.

Remove cover and place in a 450-degree oven for 5 minutes before removing from the can.