There's a bend in the river and from where I stand
I can see the steamboats turning
I can hear the sailors calling as they make their way for land
I can smell the coalfire burning
Every morning I've been climbing up and down the lighthouse stairs
And looking out on the water
Been leaning on the railing and watching for hours
For a boat called the Riverman's Daughter
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, have you sailed on out to sea?
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, won't you sail home, in the boat you named for me
Through the fog on the river in the old morning light
I can see a smokestack gleaming
Could it be my darling coming home alright?
Could it be my love come steaming?
Every morning I've been climbing up and down the lighthouse stairs
And looking out on the water
Been leaning on the railing and watching for hours
For a boat called the Riverman's Daughter
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, have you sailed on out to sea?
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, won't you sail home
After all these years have you forgotten me
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, have you sailed on out to sea?
Oh Riverman, Oh Riverman, won't you sail home, in the boat you named for me