Here I sit on Buttermilk Hill,
 Who could blame me cry my fill?
 And ev’ry tear will turn a mill.
 Since Johnny has gone for a soldier.
 Me, oh, my, I loved him so,
 Broke my heart to see him go.
 And only time will heal my woe.
 Johnny has gone for a soldier.
 I'll sell my rod, I'll sell my reel,
 Likewise I'll sell my spinning wheel,
 And buy my love a sword of steel,
 Johnny has gone for a soldier.
 I'll dye my dress, I'll dye it red,
 And through the streets I'll beg my bread,
 For the lad that I love from me has fled,
 Johnny has gone for a soldier.