i'm on the river for a lark
in my brain, an image, stark...idea time
i get a shiver...and stop and say..."hold everything"
a man who's rowin' briskly...don't make much time
but if i'm right...well, i can make a boat just zing

just place a wheel outside
and attach some paddles...to grace it
greater speed you can attain...when that wheel goes 'round
condensation...put through its paces
oh what a joy...when off, we will bound
way on down south...with whistle sounds

yeah, with the pipes engorged...i won't...be ignored
with a stately rhythm...it wouldn't need a sail to forward, spring
yes, you'd need no oars... to pull you...ever forward
we'd just glide with all of our might...as straight as string

a maritime delight...it will surely..make a scene
though not an easy job...i'll do it...just right
i can make that engine rock...and make it sing
i'll rev it right up...and hit the heights
i'm bob fulton...robert fulton..of steam !

got a bellow of noise...a stunning machine...made to order
vapors pressed...which is sent unflagging...till the proud ship moves
the paddlewheel slams...about with glee...thumping waves so grand
i'm famous...hey ! ...i've notched my goal
i'm bob fulton...this fulton's...a hero !...( hero ! )

i am a man...who stepped right up...it was me, alone
i'm set at last...because i've done...this thing
good times now...quick times...with this boat
yeah, i made it fast....this gift...i bring
i'm robert fulton...i'm robert fulton...of steam !