The song expresses themes of abolitionism and log cabin virtues, with the chorus also expansively establishing Lincoln as a favorite son of three states (Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois).
The Hutchinson family traveled through the country singing the song at Lincoln campaign rallies and even in the White House.
Another version of the song, sung by Ronnie Gilbert and ostensibly written by Jesse Hutchinson, praises abolitionism and emancipation, and condemns racism.
[1] In the novel Paradise Alley by Kevin Baker, young Republicans sang the song in a political rally (see pg.
Our David's good sling is unerring, The Slaveocrats' giant he slew; Then shout for the Freedom-preferring— For Lincoln and Liberty too!