This throwback cake is more like a quick bread, and the perfect addition to an Election Night Party.
Pour warm water into large mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast over. Stir and then let stand for 5 minutes to let it dissolve.
Add 1 cup of flour and beat until well blended - the mixture will be quite stiff. Add the butter and beat until smooth.
Add the eggs, brown sugar, buttermilk, remaining flour (except for 1 tablespoon), baking soda, salt and spices. Beat for three minutes.
Toss the currants and figs the 1 tablespoon of flour to coat, then add to the batter and stir to mix well.
Divide batter evenly between two greased, 4.5 inch by 2.5 inch loaf pans. Cover loosely with a towel and let rest 1.5 hours.
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake the cakes for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the center tests clean.
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a rack and cool completely.