Just heard from a professor at UK (Go Big Blue!) who teaches Appalachian music, and he is unfamiliar with a mountain source for this one. He also doesn't know of any WPA records in KY but will keep an ear out. The Wellesley connection is looking more plausible. I still need to hear from some Kentucky historians.

Jean, when I mention the song to people, they say, "Oh yes, that's familiar, didn't Jean Ritchie sing that?" !!!!!