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 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 his chest

Into my arms he gently pressed

He cried my love

Don't you murder me

I'm unprepared for eternity

I started home 'tween twelve and one

Crying my god what have I done

I killed the only man I loved

Because I couldn't be his love

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

Down by the banks of the Ohio