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 other's arms entwine,
Down beside where the waters flow,
Down by the banks of the Ohio.

I held a knife against his breast
As into his arms I gently pressed,
He cried, "My God! don't you murder me,
I'm not prepared for eternity"

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

[Instrumental]

I wandered home 'tween twelve and one
I cried, "My God! what have I done?
Killed the only man I loved
He would not take me for his bride"

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