According to Meade "Poor Little Orphaned Boy" appeared in print in 1874. The song is apparently traditional. The first recording was made in 1928 by Buell Kazee followed by the Carter Family's 1933 recording.

POOR LITTLE ORPHANED BOY- Carter Family 1933

My mother died when I was young
My sisters, they were sad
They laid their hands upon my head
And taught me how to pray

    So now, my mother, she's gone to rest
    In the land of purest joy
    And I wonder if she thinks of me
    Her poor little orphaned boy
    [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

When I was only two years old
I never shall forget
A parting kiss she gave to me
I sometimes feel it yet

    So now, my mother, she's gone to rest
    In the land of purest joy
    And I wonder if she thinks of me
    Her poor little orphaned boy
    [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

When I was sick, in every hour
She watched me as I lay
And with her kind and gentle hand
She smoothed me tenderly

    So now, my mother, she's gone to rest
    In the land of purest joy
    And I wonder if she thinks of me
    Her poor little orphaned boy
    [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

So now I press this world alone
Her love with me shall stay
And from the throne above the skies
Her smile shall rest on me

    So now, my mother, she's gone to rest
    In the land of purest joy
    And I wonder if she thinks of me
    Her poor little orphaned boy