I asked my love to take a walk
Just to walk a little way
And as we walked, and as we talked
Of our golden wedding day

Then only say that you'll be mine
In no other arms you'll find
Down beside where the waters flow
On the banks of the Ohio

I drew a sword across her breast
Gently in my arms she pressed
Cryin' "Willy oh Willy don't you murder me
For I'm unprepared for eternity"

Chorus

I took her by her lily-white hand
I led her down where the waters stand
I picked her up and I pitched her in
And watched her as she floated down

Chorus

I started back home, 'twixt twelve and one
Cryin' "my God, what have I done?
I've murdered the only woman I love
Because she would not be my bride"
Chorus