It has been pointed out before in this forum that "Where My Eileen is Waiting" (in the DT) is very similar to the American "Over the Mountain", sung by Uncle Dave Macon. The latter has also been recorded by Don McLean and Michael Johnathon.

I noticed, though, that there are minor differences between their lyrics. One of these, which puzzles me, is that "Over the Mountain" uses the single word "ollie" in place of both "colleen" and "Eileen" that are used in "Where My Eileen is Waiting."

My question is: which of the two songs/versions came first? In other words, did the song originate in Ireland or America? Did it exist in Ireland before Uncle Dave Macon sang it? If the answer is yes, how did "colleen" and "Eileen" become "ollie"? Does the word "ollie" mean anything to the Irish, or is it just a short form for the name Olivia?

An answer/explanation would be most appreciated.