It being in the springtime and the small birds, they were singing
Down by yon shady harbor, I carelessly did stray, the, the thrushes
They were warbling, the violets, they were charming
To view fond lovers talking, a while I did delay

She said, 'My dear, don't leave me all for another season
Though fortune does be pleasing, I'll go along with you
I'll forsake friends and relations and bid this Irish nation
And to the bonny Bann banks forever, I'll bid adieu'

He said, 'My dear, don't grieve or yet annoy my patience
You know I love you dearly the more I'm going away
I'm going to a foreign nation to purchase a plantation
To comfort us hereafter all in America'

Then after a short while a fortune does be pleasing
It will 'cause them for smile at our late going away
We'll be happy as Queen Victoria, all in her greatest glory
We'll be drinking wine and porter all in America

If you were in your bed lying and thinking on dying
The sight of the lovely Bann banks, your sorrow you'd give over
Or if were down one hour, down in yon shady bower
Pleasure would surround you, you'd think on death no more

Then fare you well, sweet Craigie Hills, where often times I've roved
I never thought my childhood days I'd part you anymore
Now, we're sailing on the ocean for honor and promotion
And the bonny boats are sailing way down by Doorin shore