As I went out walkin' one fine summer's mornin'

the birds in the branches they did gaily sing

the lad and the lasses together were sportin'

goin' down to the fact'ry their work to begin



I spied a fair damsel far fairer than any

her cheeks like the red rose that none could excel

her skin like the lily that grows in yon valley

she's my own bonnie Annie my factory girl



I stepped did up to her just thinkin' to view her

but at me she cast a proud look of disdain

sayin' "Stand off me young man and do not insult me

for although I am poor sure I think it no shame"



"It's not to insult you fair maid I adore thee

ah pray grant me one favor it's where do ya dwell?"

"Kind sir forgive me it's now I must leave you

for I hear the dumb sound of the factory bell"



Now love is a thing that does rule every nation

good mornin' kind sir and I hope ya do well

my friends and relations would all frown upon it

besides I'm a hardworkin' factory girl



Oh it's true I do love her but now she won't have me

for her sake I'll wander through valley and dell

and for her sake I'll wander where no one can find me

I'll die for the sake of my factory girl