Now I'm really curious about the origin of the version I've sung for a number of years. I thought I got it from an Edith Fowke collection, but thanks to Stewie's post I realize that's not the case. I remember reading about it's origins being the common practice of white men impregnating native women, then leaving never to be found again.

The words I learned were:

It's a long time that I Have Been waiting
For the words that you never would say
But alas my last hope it has vanished
For they say you are going away

Come and sit by my side if you love me
Do not hasten to bid me adieu\
Just remember the Red River Valley
And the girl who has loved you so true.

Often think of that Red River Valley
And how lonesome and sad I will be
Often think of those times by the river
In the evening among prairie flowers.


Anybody know where I may have picked up that last verse?