Norman Blake must have done most of the lyrics. He is a real train buff.

However, the song dates (at least) to a recording made 1 OCT 1928 in Nashville by RCA.

Originally titled "The Little Red Caboose Behind the Train" and credited to Paul Warmack and the Gully Jumpers.

The tune is the same one used in the better-known "Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane". This one may be a predecessor of that song.

The tune and first chorus are close to the 1928 recording. I will listen again.