Henry's Songbook

I asked my love to go with me,
Just to walk a little way.
And as we walked, 'twas then we talked
Of our approaching wedding day.

chorus:
Then only say that you'll be mine
And in no other arms entwine.
Down beside, where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio.

I held a knife against her breast
As gently in my arms she pressed,
Crying "Willie, Oh Willie! Don't murder me
For I'm unprepared for eternity!"

cho:

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

cho:

I started home 'twixt twelve and one
Cryin' "Oh my God! What have I done?
I've murdered the only woman I love
Because she would not be my bride.

cho:

 [1982:] Dieses ist eine amerikanische Ballade über einen Mord an einem Mädchen, die nicht das übliche Thema (Mord wegen einer ungewollten Schwangerschaft) behandelt. Hier tötet der Mann das Mädchen, weil sie ihn nicht heiraten wollte. In anderen Versionen dieses Liedes wird überliefert, daß ihre Familie dagegen war. (Liedercircus 92)

See also Mudcat.org

Banks of the Ohio for a version from a woman's perspective