Adding to George Seto's post:
The Kingston Trio repeated the first verse at the end of the song. Leo's Lyrics also credits Ovid Young for the graceful lyrics.

Lyr. Add: The River is Wide
Lyrics: Ovid Young

The river is wide, I cannot see
Nor do I have light wings to fly
There'll be a boat that can carry two
And both shall row, my love and I.

My love is like the lofty tree
It shudders fears and then sways free
If it should fade when the summer's through
She'll bloom again when spring shines through.

When love is young, then love is fine
Just like a gem when first it's new
But love grows old and waxes cold
And fades away like the morning dew.

The river is wide, I cannot see
Nor do I have light wings to fly
There'll be a boat that can carry two
And both shall row, my love and I.

www.leo's lyrics.com: River is Wide

Ovid Young is a pianist and organist, better known for religious themes. Haven't found a date for this song yet.