[Verse 1]
I asked my love to take a walk
Take a walk, just a little walk
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio

[Chorus]
And only say that you'll be mine
In no other's arms entwined
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio

[Verse 2]
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"

[Chorus]
And only say that you'll be mine
In no other's arms entwined
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio

[Verse 3]
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
[Chorus]
And only say that you'll be mine
In no other's arms entwined
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio