Benjamin Hanby's song Darling Nelly Gray is written from the perspective of a Kentucky slave whose lover, Nelly Gray, has been sold to another owner. The song captured the inhumanity of slavery and was popular among many abolitionists. It measures 8.4 x 12.83 inches (21.33 x 32.58 cm).

Benjamin Hanby (1833-1867) was born in Rushville, Ohio and attended Otterbein College in Westerville. He served as a pastor in the United Brethren Church, but eventually supported himself with his music. Among his best known works are Up on the Housetop, Old Shady, and Who is He in Yonder Stall?