The words Ralph Butts's father learned in Amsterdam, NY are almost exactly those which were sung (never recorded, unless I have it on an unlogged field tape) by Lawrence Older of Middle Grove, NY. Lawrence was a well-known traditional singer in these parts ( see Folk-Legacy album CD-15).

Middle Grove is not far from Amsterdam. Lawrence had an aunt who would make baskets all winter and set out for Amsterdam in the spring, selling baskets as she went...and spending the proceeds when she got there.
I believe it was from that same aunt that Lawrence had the song.

I always thought - I think he thought - that she made the song (it is a parody of a popular song). Maybe she did, and it circulated. But it is equally possible that she just picked it up from local circulation.

Add me to the list of those who'd like to find out more. - George