Matilda, with your calloused hands

Where Will goes you will follow

In search of better land.



Matilda, never mind where you have been

Forget about Missouri

Forget about your kin.



Matilda, it's too bad your baby's gone

But he's rested in his cradle by the river

Neath a simple grave stone.



Matilda, mus'nt let Will see ya cry

Covered wagons keep on rollin'

Never question or ask why.



Matilda, work your fingers to the bone

Read your Bible, pray the Indians might spare you

Till you and Will reach your new home.



Matilda, just five-hundred miles to go

Ya know Will's so proud of you

Though he never tells you so



Matilda, Matilda