As hodgepodge mentioned, there are many versions of this song. The one I learned takes "Shady Grove" not as a location, but as the name of the girl to whom the song is addressed. Hm, interesting. Apparently there is also a version in which Shady Grove is a prostitute into the bargain. Unfortunately, I don't know that one.

In this version, the chorus starts after the first verse, and repeats after every verse throughout, with a variation at the very end.


Went to see my Shady Grove, standing in the door
Shoes and stockings in her hand, little bare feet on the floor.

Shady Grove, my true love, Shady Grove I know
Shady Grove, my true love, I'm bound for Shady Grove.

Peaches in the summertime, apples in the fall
If I can't have the one I love then I won't have none at all.

Some come here to fiddle and dance, some come here to tarry
Some come here to fiddle and dance, but I come here to marry.

Fly around my blue-eyed girl, fly around my daisy
Fly around my blue-eyed girl, almost drive me crazy.

Wish I had a banjo string made of golden twine
Every tune I'd pick on it is "I wish that girl were mine".

Shady Grove, Shady Grove, Shady Grove I know I know
Shady Grove, my true love, I'm bound for Shady Grove.