How did the song Big Rock Candy Mountain become a children's song?

Question

The song is a hobo's idea of paradise with references to jail, whiskey and other undesirable topics for a usual childrens song. So, how did it morph into what it is now?

Answer 1

The tune is kind of fun, I like to listen to it and can understand why a kid would like it, and it has the word candy in it.

Answer 2

it's probably like those cartoons (Spongebob) that have a literal meaning (which the kids understand) and a metaphorical level (which the adults "get")

Answer 3

it's a pretty old song, right? well, a long time ago, whiskey for one wasnt as looked down on as it is now.

there are plenty of innappropriate songs out there that now are childhood classics.

like...

"all around the mullberry bush.."

-its about people dying durring the plague

so yea.. thats what i think