Digital Tradition Mirror

Just Before the Drawing, Sweetheart

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Pennywhistle notation and Dulcimer tab for this song is also available

Just Before the Drawing, Sweetheart

Just before the drawing, sweetheart,
I am waiting for a claim.
Way out here in Dewey County
Way out here upon the plain.
As I gaze upon the prairie
And the promised land I view;
Oh, just before the drawing sweetheart
I am thinking most of you.

cho: Farewell sweetheart, you may never

Press me to your breast again,

But, oh, I'll not forget you, sweetheart

While I'm waiting for my claim.

Way out here in Dewey County
Way out here upon the plains.
Way out here upon my homestead
Where they say it never rains.
Just before the drawing, sweetheart
Many they are coming here.
They have left their homes and families,
They have left their sweethearts dear.

They are coming for the drawing,
They are hoping for a home.
Where they'll take their own dear loved ones,
And no more will ever roam.
Now, my darling, watch the paper
And if you should see my name,
You will know we have a homestead
You will know we have a claim.

Then, my sweetheart, you get ready
Then to Pierre you may come.
We'll go in a prairie schooner
To our Dewey County home.
Way out here in Dewey County
Where they say it never rains,
Our sod shanty is awaiting,
Our home upon the plains.


note: another rewrite of Just Before the Battle, Mother. RG
RG

Thanks to Mudcat for the Digital Tradition!