In bowl, cover chopped dates with hot water; let stand 1 hour. In bowl, blend flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, chopped walnuts, softened butter, salt and baking soda.
Heat oven to 350° F. Add dates and water; mix until dates are evenly distributed and dry ingredients are moistened; do not overmix.
Pour into 2 loaf pans and bake for about 1 hour. A wooden pick or skewer inserted in center should come out clean.
Makes: 2 two-pound loaves