I've traveled from Texas to old Louisiane Through valleys, over mountains and plains Both foot sore and weary, I rested awhile On the banks of the old Ponchertrain The fairest young maiden that I ever saw Passed by as it started to rain We both found a shelter beneath the same tree On the banks of the old Ponchertrain I ventured a smile but the thought I was home I hastened to try and explain But somehow I knew I would linger awhile On the banks of the old Ponchertrain We hid from the shower an hour or so She asked me how long I'd remain Well, I told her that I'd spend the rest of my days On the banks of the old Ponchertrain Then one day a man put his hand on my arm And said I must go west again I left her alone without saying goodbye On the banks of the old Ponchertrain Tonight as I sit here alone in my cell I know that she's waiting for me I'm hoping and praying someday she'll return To the banks of the old Ponchertrain On the banks of the old Ponchertrain