In a note, Carl Sandburg says "It was a favorite in The Black Watch and among the Canadian and Anzac contingents during the World War" (WW1). "The melody... from Paul Boston, John Lock and Bert Massee of Chicago."
Edward Arthur Dolph, 1928 and 1942, "Sound Off", Soldier Songs, says "I first heard this song sung by an officer who had served in England during part of the war. It is said to have been a favorite with the Black Watch and with the Anzacs."