Banks of the Ohio

I asked my love to take a walk To take a walk, just a little walk Down beside where the waters flow Down by the banks of the Ohio

And only say that you'll be mine In no others' arms entwine Down beside where the waters flow Down by the banks of the Ohio

I held a knife against her breast As into my arms she pressed She cried, 'Oh Willie, don't murder me I'm not prepared for eternity'

And only say that you'll be mine In no others' arms entwine Down beside where the waters flow Down by the banks of the Ohio

I started home 'tween twelve and one I cried, 'My God, what have I done? Killed the only woman I loved Because she would not be my bride'

And only say that you'll be mine In no others' arms entwine Down beside where the waters flow Down by the banks of the Ohio