[f#DGAD tuning] 
I gotta admit: I have a bit of a soft spot for good, old-fashioned murder ballads, and Omie Wise stands at the top of my list. Once again, folklorists and enthusiasts have uncovered a great deal about the history of the characters in the song and it’s origins. If you’re interested in this type of stuff (like I am), check out Lyle Lofgrens’ page, this article at wikipedia (it’s actually not too bad), and this excellent page which comes from an early account of the murder written in the early 1800’s.
For the best sampling of the various versions floating around out there, go to the bottom of this page at The Old, Weird America.
Finally, go here to find MORE information and a stirring recording of the song done by Doc Watson.
*About my arrangement: I’ve been listening to a lot of Dock Boggs lately, and although Mr. Boggs played it, his version was done in standard (gDGBD) tuning. I couldn’t resist trying to work it up in the tuning he used most – f#DGAD – and I like the results. Hopefully you do too. Enjoy!
Thumb-Lead Banjer 