Well, Johnson Van Dyke Grigsby
Was paroled at eighty-nine
He never walked on a carpet
Never tasted dinner wine
His old eyes were slowly fading
As he walked out of the gate
And he breathed the first free air he'd breathed
Since 1908
Howdy do, Michigan City?
You're sure a pretty sight
But I know there's bigger cities
And more exciting nights
But I think your girls are pretty
And I love your children too
Michigan City, Indiana
Howdy do?
Michigan City, Indiana
Howdy do?
Filled with the joy of freedom
He didn't know that he was old
Cause time don't really matter
When it's bubbling in your soul
Well, I don't think he was bitter
Cause he sure had a smile
And down the streets of Michigan City
He walked his first free mile
Howdy do, Michigan City?
You're sure a pretty sight
But I know there's bigger cities
And more exciting nights
But I think your girls are pretty
And I love your children too
Michigan City, Indiana
Howdy do?
Michigan City, Indiana
Howdy do?