Paths of Victory Lyrics

Lyric discussion by MamboMan 

Cover art for Paths of Victory lyrics by Bob Dylan

Does anyone know the origin of this song? I have several versions of this song in my collection. (Unfortunately, I am not near the collection so I don't have the details). One version is by Hedy West called "Pans of Biscuits." Same tune, but thelyrics describe the backbreaking life of a farmer. It's on a Smithsonian folk song collection, recorded in the early 1960's. According to the notes she learned from her great uncle who learned it circa 1880. Great version. I have another version of the song from a bluegrass collection - can't remeber the artist- Wilma Lee? Maybe from the 1960's . It's called "Palms of Viictory". Not sure how similar the lyrics are to this version.
In the early days Bob was known for "reinterpreting" folk songs, so I am guessing that this is the case here.

Song Comparison

Palms of Victory is the origin of this song

"Then palms of victory, crowns of glory, Palms of victory I shall wear."