molasses: lest we forget

As I bit into a Hollandia oatmeal cookie (I have since learned that Hollandia actually make molasses cookies) the other night - i was reminded of the delicious flavour of molasses. what ever happened to molasses?
well...

Molasses used to be the primary sweetener used in days of yore until refined white sugar pushed it to the back of the shelf. It has a distinctive flavor that brings extra sparkle to spice-laden recipes such as gingerbread, fruitcake, cookies, toffee, baked beans, and sauces.
(about.com)

Here is a fun way of learning about molasses (and it's non-culinary uses) thanks to illustrator Greg Williams and Wikipedia: