What is the old gray mare lyrics?

"Old gray mare" is a traditional folk song that originated in the United States, with variations of the lyrics found across the country. The song tells the story of an old gray mare who becomes too old to work and must be put out to pasture. The lyrics typically include the repeated chorus "She ain't what she used to be, she ain't what she used to be, she's not the girl that I knew years ago."

The song is often associated with the American frontier and the pioneer spirit, as it speaks to the hardships and sacrifices that settlers faced in taming and developing the land. The old gray mare serves as a symbol of steadfastness and endurance, despite the hardships that come with age and wear.

The song has been recorded by numerous artists over the years, including Burl Ives, Gene Autry, and Pete Seeger, among others. It remains a popular tune for sing-alongs and campfire gatherings, and its nostalgic melody and sentiment continue to resonate with listeners of all ages.