Orange Slice Cake

3 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound candy orange slices
1/2 pound dates
2 cups nuts
1 can coconut
1 cup shortening
2 cups granulated sugar
4 eggs
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup buttermilk

Sift together and set aside the flour and salt. Cut up orange slices and dates. Combine with nuts and coconut. Add one-half of the flour and mix well. Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Combine baking soda with buttermilk. Add to shortening mixture. Add fruit and remaining flour. Bake for 1 1/2 hours at 300 degrees F.