Matilda, with your calloused hands
Where Will goes you will follow
In search of better land

Matilda, never mind where you have been
Forget about Missouri
Forget about your kin

Matilda, it's too bad your baby's gone
But he's rested in his cradle by the river
Neath a simple grave stone

Matilda, mus'nt let Will see ya cry
Covered wagons keep on rollin'
Never question or ask why

Matilda, work your fingers to the bone
Read your Bible, pray the Indians might spare you
Till you and Will reach your new home

Matilda, just five-hundred miles to go
Ya know Will's so proud of you
Though he never tells you so

Matilda, Matilda