My Dad learned it from a Chautaqua(sp?)yat passed through Valier Montana, (near Conrad), in the early/mid 19' teens. His brothers and he sung it with a much exagerated southern twang, dramadics and facial comedy. Ironicly, sang it on their move to L.A. in the early twenties, broken down model 'T's, bad, steep winding roads, you get the picture. Dad and his family put little stock in Mormans so I can't see a connection from that dirrection.
However, having an upbringing in music and have listened to some Morman music, I have seen the dendicy of the Mormans ripping off a song or melody, changing it enough to fit their needs and calling it their own. ie. Finlandia of all things.