I went into his prison cell
To write his story, if he'd tell
He spoke as tears, fell from his eyes
And he told me when, and how and why
And he said

I asked my love to take a walk
Just to walk, a little ways
And as we walked, then we could talk
About our future wedding day

But when she said, she could never be mine
I held a knife against his breast
As into my arms she pressed
He cried "my love, don't you murder me
I'm not prepared for eternity"

Then only say that you'll be mine
And in no others' arms entwine
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the ohio

I started home 'tween twelve and one
I cried, "my God, what have I done?"
I've killed the one I love tonight
Because she would not be my bride

Well only say that you'll be mine
And 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

Save my soul lord
Save my soul
There beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the ohio