Great find.

New Orleans Democrat (May 15, 1879), p. 8:

"During the evening's entertainment many songs were sung, among which we cannot help mentioning the 'Little Ball of Yarn,' which was up to the point and admirably rendered."

Also:

Scott Valley News (Ft. Jones, Calif.) (Jan. 18, 1880), p. 3: "Mr. Sekelly sang his favorite 'Little Ball of Yarn.'"

The Evening News (St.Joseph, Mo.) (June 9, 1880), p. 4:

"It is understood that a number of young ladies are very anxious to learn that new and popular ballad, 'Winding Up That Little Ball of Yarn.' They should have some of their young gentlemen friends sing it for them."