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 (where waters flow)

Down by the banks of the Ohio (the Ohio)

I held a knife against his breast

As into my arms he pressed

He cried, "My love, 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 (where waters flow)

Down by the banks of the Ohio (the Ohio)

I wandered home 'tween 12 and one

I cried, "My God, what have I done?"

I've killed the only man I love

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 (where waters flow)

Down by the banks of the Ohio (the Ohio)

Down by the banks of the Ohio