I wasn't looking at YouTube when I posted, just reporting what I know.
You are correct that there are at least 4 animated versions, including a German one from the 40's and the 80's version as well as the Terrytoon.
BUT the 1932(or 33, sources vary) version was indeed made independently by Eshbaugh. Eshbaugh later worked with Van Beuran briefly.
He's not well known, he worked in Boston at one point on his independent films.
His SNOWMAN was originally 2-color.

SAM33