Sandburg noted that the tune was similar to that of many Irish and English jigs, also that the song was widespread in America.

It appears in De Marsan song sheets, and the Traditional Ballad Index lists Brown and Scarborough (a. o.) as well as Sandburg, none older than the one found by Jim Dixon.
"Black-eyed peas" in the song suggests an American origin.

The Zimbabwean singer Netsayi called her latest album "Monkey's Wedding." The song probably travelled with English-speakers all over the world.
In meteorology, a sunshower is called a monkey's wedding. It is also applied to any unusual combination.