This from the Fireside Book of American Songs:

TRRBDE was published in 1891. Herny Sayers, the composer, frankly says that the tune originated in Babe Bonner's famous St. Louis brother, sung by the fabulous nego singer Mama Lou. Sayers' song was a complete failure: America would have nothign to do with it. A year later, Lottie Collins, well-known music-hall singer of the day, sang it in London. Overnight it became a sensation. The music-hall crowds delighted in its rollicking rhythm and its nonsensical lines. Brought back to America by Lottie Collins in 1894 it was greeted with t he sam wild enthusiasm that the English had accorded it, and has remained on of America's most popular songs. (page 23)

Neat information!