Chicago's First Lady

Boat tour agency · Loop

Chicago's First Lady

Boat tour agency · Loop

112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Highlights

Chicago's First Lady Cruises offers visitors the city's most engaging architectural tour experience. All of our tours are given by experienced, volunteer docents who receive hundreds of hours of training from the Chicago Architecture Center before guiding the river cruise tour. We offer several types of tours at various times of the day. Our fleet of cruise vessels is also available to rent for private events.

112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 Get directions

cruisechicago.com

@cflcruises

@infatuation

"Even if you’re not necessarily into nerding out about flying buttresses and the beaux-arts style, The Architectural Boat Tour is still one of the most unique ways to see the city. For an hour and half, you’ll learn some history, see some great views of the buildings and the changing colors of the leaves, plus every boat has a bar if you’re in the mood for a drink. Tickets and departure times can be found here. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise - Review - Chicago - The Infatuation

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@travelleisure

"Offers a 90-minute architecture cruise guided by experts from the Chicago Architecture Center, showcasing the city's skyline and famous buildings." - Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Stree

40 Best Things to Do in Chicago

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@infatuation

17 Things To Do For Halloween In Chicago If You Haven’t Made Plans Because Life Is Scary Enough

View Postcard for Chicago's First Lady

Kenneth Garcia

Google

We had an incredible experience on the Chicago Architecture Center Cruise with Chicago's First Lady. The tour was not only super educational but also a lot of fun! It was fascinating to learn about the history of Chicago and the stories behind all the iconic skyscrapers over time. We were fortunate to catch the last day of the tour, which made it even more special. A special shout out to Jim, 😆 I mean Dr.S..He was absolutely superb! Thank you, Dr.S for making our tour memorable

Gustav Kulle

Google

This is, hands down, one of the “must-do” activities in Chicago. Since its foundation in 1803, Chicago has had a remarkable influence on the world of architecture. This 90 minute boat tour takes you through it all and makes you consider the city from a new perspective. All led by volunteering tour guides. I’ve done it before, and will keep coming back. On this occasion we had Mark C as guide - and he did a great job.

Kimberly D

Google

I had a few hours to spare when visiting Chicago for business. I could have easily strolled along the streets, but really wanted to find a way to take in what the city offers in sights and architecture in the fastest way possible (I was flying home in the morning). The hotel recommended the First Lady Architecture Cruise. I was very lucky to have amazing weather, so this was a no-brainer. I purchased the ticket, got there 15 minutes before boarding (also recommended) and snagged a seat in front of the boat. It was amazing. The views and history were perfect. I loved hearing the stories of how certain things came about. Learning about the different designs as we glided up and down the river was so fun! The timing of this trip also coincided with a beautiful sunset. I HIGHLY recommend this tour (even if you don’t care about architecture). It was a great way to see the sights. A++ for our guide as well. Sadly I didn’t catch his name, but he deserves a pat on the back for his tours!

Jennifer Kellett

Google

This was my 4th Chicago River cruise over two visits to this city (for the marathon). I found this particular experience excellent with a very professional and knowledgeable guide (Tuesday 8 October 2024 5pm cruise). I appreciated the pamphlet with many of the skyline iconic buildings pictured. I appreciated the delivery of the information without silly jokes and attempts at humour. Thoroughly enjoyable. Most surprising was the no tipping policy when for the first time I actually wanted to give a tip! 😳

Cindy CC

Google

Architecture Center docent Kent (volunteer) was really knowledgeable & enjoyable to listen to. We had beautiful summer/autumnal weather for 11am cruise today 71F / 22 C. 90 minutes was a good amount of time to enjoy the Chicago river tour & learn about the various buildings / architects & some history about the river & significant Chicago events. Very educational. Great vantage point to take amazing photos - a photographer's dream 😊

Jay Horowitz

Google

We were advised by locals that this was the best of the architecture tours. It didn't disappoint. We did the 7:30 PM tour so the temperatures were dropping and the sun was setting making the entire experience wonderful. The tour guide from the Chicago Architecture Center knew everything you wanted to know about the history of Chicago and the beautiful skyline. Tour lasted 90 minutes and we were entertained the entire time. Highly recommended to anyone visiting Chicago.

Deepak S

Google

Our trip on Chicago's Little Lady was absolutely brilliant! A real highlight of our stay in Chicago. The boat is lovely and has a great bar serving all the refreshments you need. The guide on the boat is very informative and engaging. We really enjoyed learning about the history and the mystery of Chicago. However, the real treat was JR who looked after us beautifully! Thank you JR for giving us priority!

Caton L

Google

This place deserves the high reviews. Engaging and comprehensive tour guide, and good pace. I was skeptical at the steep ish price but you get your money's worth given the length of the tour and detail you get. As a bonus, different guides offer different insights so tours may not be exactly the same! Big, clean ship with well stocked bar.

Padma A.

Yelp

excellent time at a friends party on a really nice chicago evening. The staff were polite, the views to die for and the open bar was flowing. Will certainly host or attend another event with them!

Susan S.

Yelp

This was a good tour and we really enjoyed it. Our volunteer guide gave us lots of interesting information. The next day we went to the Architectural Center, because our tickets on Chicago's First Lady allowed us to go to the Architectural Center for only $5.00. At the Architectural Center, we learned that some of the info on Chicago's First Lady was incorrect, particularly some "myths" about the great Chicago fire. Perhaps the guides should visit the center too.

Chloe F.

Yelp

I've been to Chicago at least half a dozen times, and the architectural tour is always a favorite. Most recently, I went on Chicago's First Lady, as it was the closest ticket booth and it didn't disappoint. The guides are volunteers, but seem very passionate and knowledgeable. Worth the time and money every time!

Travis H.

Yelp

Recently booked a private event on the Chicago's First Lady. The group sales person, Mary, could not be more accommodating. She worked with us to meet our budget. Friendly staff, beautiful Chicago River views and all had a great evening. Highly recommend. Only reason 4 vs. 5 stars is it's expensive, but it's online with the Chicago expenses.

Grace F.

Yelp

I haven't been on the architecture tour for about 5 years, but I always enjoy it. It was a beautiful Wednesday sunny (but not overly hot) day. The tour guide was succinct in her description of the various buildings.

Natalka K.

Yelp

Came to celebrate our boss's birthday on Wednesday and we had a good time. We could t have asked for a more glorious day to do so. With 13 of us there, we all sat together on the top floor of the boat and cruised down the Chicago river. Tom out docent was great! Very knowledgeable on all Chicago buildings and skyscrapers. And how photogenic is our city!! It didn't disappoint either the sun hitting all the right marks.

Jessica R.

Yelp

Barbara, our dossiers, was excellent and informative. A family friendly, smooth ride listening to the architectural growth of the great City of Chicago.

Claudine S.

Yelp

My team outing on this boat was amazing. Mary's knowledge and explanations about the architecture were so meaty. She provided historical context with a touch of wit. We were laughing and the 90 minutes flew by. I highly recommend this tour and especially the great Mary as the tour guide. Best

Alexis J.

Yelp

I loved this tour! Our guide was a fascinating and informative volunteer from the Chicago Architecture Museum, and you could tell she loved her work. The time flew by, and the architecture along the river is truly stunning. Highly recommend.

Greg P.

Yelp

Amazing architectural river tour! John our guide was just incredible.... Fantastic. Tried to give him tip but he refused. One of the highlights of our weekend in Chicago and I would highly recommend it.

Jung Soo L.

Yelp

First time visiting Chicago and found this little gem of a boat tour. The whole ride and the guided tour was fantastic. Jacob in particular was spectacular in narrating the history of Chicago and the architecture. Overall 10/10 recommend if you want a comprehensive and interesting lesson on Chicago, and photo sessions.

Brian F.

Yelp

If you're visiting Chicago for the first time a boat tour is a must-do. And if you're going to choose one of the many, why not pick the highly rated boat tour and the official cruise line for the Chicago Architecture Center? To reserve your spots, make a reservation online. They have tour times all day starting from 9am to evening ones like at 7:30pm if you want a night tour. No matter which one you decide on it will be a great and informative time. It's a 90 minute tour led by a volunteer docent who are all very knowledgeable and passionate about Chicago building architecture. The boat will occasionally make some pit stops so you can take pictures which are very convenient. The boat has everything you need from restrooms to even a well-stocked bar. The nice thing is that if you book a tour you can get tickets to the Chicago Architecture Center for only $5 more instead of the typical $14. This is a great way to see Chicago from a different perspective!

L V.

Yelp

We chose the 7:30 PM Architecture River Cruise with priority boarding. It was AMAZING! This was one of our most favorite things we did while in Chicago. We chose the last row of seats on the upper deck so no one was behind us, and we had the best wide opened views. It was truly spectacular. We learned so much about the history and architecture of Chicago. Our tour guide was Lydia, and she was exceptional. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND this tour!

CarolAnn G.

Yelp

We took the architecture boat tour today. Ellen was our guide. She was amazing!!! (So knowledgeable!!) We went through the entire Chicago river and saw everything. She new the history of the city, each of the buildings, and what was planned for the future. It was 90 min start to finish. Highly recommend!!!

Tim O.

Yelp

Wonderful tour of some of Chicago's amazing buildings along the river. Kasey was spectacular; informative and passionate. Highly recommend.

JR M.

Yelp

What a great experience! A river cruise is a must when in Chicago and this was our first time. Chicago's First Lady did not disappoint. We sailed with Charles and he was so knowledgeable about everything. Who knew there was so much to know about a building?! It was a beautiful day, not cold and smooth cruise all the way down. I cannot vouch for drinks but I know they sell them. A fantastic experience overall and would absolutely do again if I'm ever visiting Chicago again.

Rob S.

Yelp

Greatly enjoyed our nighttime cruise on the Chicago River and lakefront. Our commentator Jacob was very informative and entertaining. Would do trip again. Had great time despite the cool November air.

Jacques I.

Yelp

There is a lot to see and do in Chicago, but an architecture tour by boat is an absolute must. When deciding which architecture tour would be best, I saw that Chicago's First Lady boat tour is the official tour of the Chicago Architecture Center, which sold me. You can get tickets ahead of time, which I recommend doing if you're going with a group and want a specific time. However, for the four of us, we were able to get tickets half an hour before the 6pm tour, which is the last for the day. The ticket window is near the dock/entrance of where the boat takes off from. Tickets were about $50 per person. Line up early for the best seats since tickets do not assign seating. The architecture tour was about 90 minutes and is narrated by a volunteer who tells you about Chicago's history and the background of the many buildings that you'll see along the cruise. It really is the best way to learn about the historical buildings and skyscrapers, and Chicago's past. I recommend anyone visiting Chicago to partake in an architecture tour by boat, especially through Chicago's First Lady.

Friendly G.

Yelp

Absolutely lovely tour. The docent was incredibly knowledgeable, and I've learned something new every time I've done this tour. I think this is the best architectural boat tour in Chicago!

Rachel G.

Yelp

Amazing tour full of fascinating information...highly recommend! The volunteer guide was super knowledgeable and very informative!

Courtney A.

Yelp

we loved this tour! we went as a group for a school event and this tour was definitely the highlight of our trip. we were with Ronnie Jo and Captain Diamond (i believe that was their names?) and they did absolutely wonderful. the volunteer was very obviously passionate about what she was talking about and made the experience so much more enjoyable. the bar was reasonably priced for an attraction and the lakeview lemonade was really good. i would definitely come back for this tour again.

Jake P.

Yelp

This was our favorite tourist activity in Chicago! Mark, our guide, was funny, witty, and full of interesting Chicago history and info. The views were incredible. We stayed at the front of the boat and avoided a lot of the sun and crowd. There's a full bar on board!

Jim S.

Yelp

My husband and I were lucky enough to attend the CAC First Lady boat tour on Saturday 8/19/23 at 11:00am. We had the pleasure of having Patricia as our docent. We were so impressed with Pat's knowledge of the buildings, history, and architecture. She has so much passion. It was if she was telling the history of the buildings to guests for the very 1st time even though she has been doing this for 17 years! She also added a great sense of humor. The Air and Water show was also taking place and the Blue Angels added an entertainment bonus. Again Pat-thank you for making our day! Jim and Tamora

Anthony A.

Yelp

I researched the architectural tours prior to going with the First Lady. The First Lady is associated to the Architect.org which you can tour also at 111 Wacker Drive. This tour is awesome, being raised in Chicago I learned more about the buildings built on the river than I learned while studying in the city. The little tidbits of information on how decisions were made really made this an interesting tour! The ship/boat that takes you out is classy, the wood on the lower level is rich and gives you that feel of old time sailing. I would take this cruise again and again !

Ashley P.

Yelp

Really enjoyed this tour of Chicago from the river. Learned a lot and appreciated all of the guide's expertise and narration. Definitely check it out if you're spending a weekend in Chicago or want to know some cool tidbits about the city and it's architecture!

Paulo I.

Yelp

This was by far my favorite tourist attraction in Chicago. We basically covered a large portion of downtown Chicago in only 90 min. My girlfriend and I took some great selfies and the views alone are worth it. They also have a bar in the first floor just in case you want to enjoy a refreshment while on the tour. Our tour guide was a volunteer who truly loves her city and was very knowledgeable on the subject. It didn't feel like a boring lecture in school, it was actually entertaining and I'm happy to say I left the tour knowing more about Chicago than I did entering. Definitely recommend if it's your first time in Chicago and you're trying to cover as much as possible in a short time.

Sammy W.

Yelp

We had the best time with Chicago's First Lady on the architecture boat tour! It was fun learning about the history of Chicago as it pertains to its architecture and its waterways! I'm usually not much of a history person, but I found the information that our tour guide Susan provided to be very intriguing. We went under 24 bridges and saw countless beautiful buildings and structures. We learned about the river itself and the Chicago fires and how it all has impacted and currently impacts the city. The tour was about an hour and a half and the weather was honestly perfect. It was supposed to rain but it ended up being partly cloudy with the sun poking out every once in a while so we were perfectly comfortable sitting on the top deck. There's also bathrooms and a bar on the lower deck of the boat; it seemed to be a full bar. I would highly recommend Chicago's First Lady for their architecture boat tour! We had a great time!!

Michelle H.

Yelp

After some research, I decided to purchase tickets for the architecture tour, and I am so glad I did!! What a wonderful way to see the city. It is 90 minutes long, but it goes by so quickly. It was also nice to sit down for some time since there is so much walking in Chicago lol. Our guide was a volunteer and was funny and very knowledgeable. The tour was informative about not only the architecture of the major buildings but also about the history and other fun facts about Chicago in general. Definitely recommend doing this tour if you're looking to do "touristy" things in Chicago. You also get a discount to the architecture center if you buy this tour!

Alyshia A.

Yelp

We did a 7:30pm cruise and it was perfect! We had amazing weather! Georgia was our tour guide and she was great!! Can't say enough good things!! She was so knowledgeable, genuinely excited to tell you about every building and so easy to listen to! Would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting!!

DeEtte W.

Yelp

This was such a fun way to see the city! Our Docent was Gary and our Captain was Lee. Gary was so fun and knowledgable. I highly recommend if you are looking to go on a river architecture cruise!

Azure G.

Yelp

What a lovely experience!! Didn't do any research but the timing was right given our location and no regrets about this spur of the moment decision. We did the architecture "three C's" tour; the tour guide was fantastic, cocktails tasty and reasonably priced, and just an overall wonderful time. Would highly recommend. Can't beat those views!!

Justen G.

Yelp

What a fabulous tour that the Chicago Architecture Center provides! We had Steve as our guide on the most recent trip, and the energy he brought to the tour was incredible. Such an amazing experience to get to see so many iconic buildings from a whole new angle. If you have friends in town that have never seen Chicago, take them on the CAC's Architecture Tour. It can't be beat! Thank you CAC, Steve, and all of the volunteers and workers who make these tours so amazing!

Krishna Bhavithavya K.

Yelp

We did the architecture cruise on a sat evening. It was a beautiful evening to enjoy the city's architecture. The volunteer who narrated was very good. The boat crew were very friendly and check process was smooth. Overall an amazing way to Njoy the city, would highly recommend it.

Jennifer A.

Yelp

Highly recommend this cruise - our tour guide person Joni was born and raised in Chicago, very informative and fun! Enjoyable cruise offering adult beverages and snacks :)

Pookie R.

Yelp

michael was such a sigma it was so skibidi and he said it was skibidi!! we loved it so much yayy

Lynne F.

Yelp

On tour on Chicago river now. WORST NARRATOR EVER! Most boring tour I've ever been on. Did this tour years ago and it was fantastic. It makes all the difference in the world to have a good speaker and she is terrible. Boring,, phrasing is all wrong,just drones on and on, no sense if humor.BORING!!!Would not recommend this tour to anyone if this volunteer is the speaker. Perhaps company needs to pay people instead of using volunteers!

David E.

Yelp

Unfortunately, it began raining while we waited in line to board but the STAFF were great and had us board early. Regrettably this impacted my ability to obtain quality images for my food and travel blog post. Such is life. At least I took many architectural shots from land in the days prior. The docent was very good and very knowledgeable giving us the details on the Chicago Tribune, various architectural styles (Art Deco, Mission Craftsman, modern etc.). It was not always the easiest to hear because we were located inside. The boat is a standard older style 2-hour boat cruise style. We have done boat tours in Tahoe and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. They have nice restrooms, a bar and indoor and outdoor space with seating. I was able to get some shots from underneath the overhang outside when the rain lightened up.

Suhi H.

Yelp

We really enjoyed the tour. I'm not obsessed with architecture or anything but it was very interesting.

Aaron B.

Yelp

Phenomenal tour! Captain Jorge gave a funny and informative speech about our tour, the boat and what to expect. Then the mike was hand to our docent. She clearly knew a lot about the buildings/architecture and general history. The ride was smooth and comfortable (minus the wind). The sun came out a few times and warmed us up.

Ronda L.

Yelp

Laura was our docent, and she did a great job! She really knew her concrete. I live in a fairly landlocked area, so I really enjoyed the relaxing ride.

Jason T.

Yelp

Super in depth and interesting river tour of Chicago. It really shows you another side of Chicago that you can't learn by yourself. Learned a ton about the different buildings and the architects and their influences on the Chicago skyline. The tour guide was super nice as well and very knowledgeable. Well worth it as a way to discover Chicago!

Krista K.

Yelp

Number one certified group architectural tour! The 1st Lady offers large group tours. Line up accordingly b/c how you place in line determines who you sit by on deck. (Best stand near those you wish to sit by.) Drinks are available on tour! Canned beer, tea, etc.. Extremely knowledgeable on interiors and exteriors of buildings along the shoreline. I learned so much about Chicago taking this tour. Ticket costs: We payed $50 per person for our tours.

Katey K.

Yelp

Knowledgeable architectural guide, Kathy, gave us a great tour of Chicago's river front and surrounding buildings. History, fun facts, and architectural details were plentiful on this informative trip. Highly recommend it, and Cathy!

Ernest D.

Yelp

Patricia did a wonderful job educating us on the historical importance and significance of the buildings along the river tour.

Winnie L.

Yelp

Although we have been to Chicago many times, this was the first time that we went on the architectural river boat cruise. We went on a Sunday morning at the 10 am slot and it was great because it was not full and while it was nice and sunny, the sun was not as strong yet. The tour guide was a volunteer from the Chicago Architecture Centre. Our tour guide, Lindy, was really great and very knowledgeable and provided lots of great facts not only about the bulldogs and architecture but also about the city of Chicago. As she was a volunteer, she is not allowed to accept tips. The 90 minute tour went by so quickly. Highly recommend this boat tour.

Michael J.

Yelp

Great river tour. Learned a lot about the history of Chicago, buildings, architects, and structures. Got some beautiful photos. This was a 5:30pm tour.

Robyn P.

Yelp

Took a boat tour with this company on the 4th of July weekend, during Covid. We were visiting Chicago from Los Angeles, and we were happy to find something to do, because many attractions not open due to Covid. The tour lasts 90 minutes, and there is both outside and indoor seating. We sat outside, and the weather was very nice. Narrative was provided by a volunteer ( forgot his name, but he was awesome). My husband arranged for the tour, so I wasn't aware that the tour is focused on the architecture of Chicago Buildings along the trip. If you are looking for a detailed boat tour designed to learn more about architecture of Chicago buildings, this is the perfect tour for you. Personally, I would have enjoyed a more general tour focusing on a broader spectrum of information.

Emily F.

Yelp

Such a wonderful tour! We went at 4 during the weekday and there were enough seats to sit on top. They serve drinks that weren't very expensive and also had some snacks. They sell hats, sunglasses and sunscreen in case you forget your own. Having a hat definitely helped. Our guide was Judith and she was incredibly smart and also very funny.

Frank R.

Yelp

Last chance for romance. Rain or shine, we are having fun. Nice tour guide, no tip accepted.

@infatuation

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise - Review - Chicago - The Infatuation

View Postcard for Chicago's First Lady

@travelleisure

40 Best Things to Do in Chicago

View Postcard for Chicago's First Lady

@infatuation

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Kenneth Garcia

Google

Gustav Kulle

Google

Kimberly D

Google

Jennifer Kellett

Google

Cindy CC

Google

Jay Horowitz

Google

Deepak S

Google

Caton L

Google

Padma A.

Yelp

excellent time at a friends party on a really nice chicago evening. The staff were polite, the views to die for and the open bar was flowing. Will certainly host or attend another event with them!

Susan S.

Yelp

Chloe F.

Yelp

Travis H.

Yelp

Grace F.

Yelp

Natalka K.

Yelp

Jessica R.

Yelp

Barbara, our dossiers, was excellent and informative. A family friendly, smooth ride listening to the architectural growth of the great City of Chicago.

Claudine S.

Yelp

Alexis J.

Yelp

Greg P.

Yelp

Jung Soo L.

Yelp

Brian F.

Yelp

L V.

Yelp

CarolAnn G.

Yelp

Tim O.

Yelp

Wonderful tour of some of Chicago's amazing buildings along the river. Kasey was spectacular; informative and passionate. Highly recommend.

JR M.

Yelp

Rob S.

Yelp

Jacques I.

Yelp

Friendly G.

Yelp

Absolutely lovely tour. The docent was incredibly knowledgeable, and I've learned something new every time I've done this tour. I think this is the best architectural boat tour in Chicago!

Rachel G.

Yelp

Amazing tour full of fascinating information...highly recommend! The volunteer guide was super knowledgeable and very informative!

Courtney A.

Yelp

Jake P.

Yelp

Jim S.

Yelp

Anthony A.

Yelp

Ashley P.

Yelp

Paulo I.

Yelp

Sammy W.

Yelp

Michelle H.

Yelp

Alyshia A.

Yelp

DeEtte W.

Yelp

This was such a fun way to see the city! Our Docent was Gary and our Captain was Lee. Gary was so fun and knowledgable. I highly recommend if you are looking to go on a river architecture cruise!

Azure G.

Yelp

Justen G.

Yelp

Krishna Bhavithavya K.

Yelp

Jennifer A.

Yelp

Highly recommend this cruise - our tour guide person Joni was born and raised in Chicago, very informative and fun! Enjoyable cruise offering adult beverages and snacks :)

Pookie R.

Yelp

michael was such a sigma it was so skibidi and he said it was skibidi!! we loved it so much yayy

Lynne F.

Yelp

David E.

Yelp

Suhi H.

Yelp

We really enjoyed the tour. I'm not obsessed with architecture or anything but it was very interesting.

Aaron B.

Yelp

Ronda L.

Yelp

Laura was our docent, and she did a great job! She really knew her concrete. I live in a fairly landlocked area, so I really enjoyed the relaxing ride.

Jason T.

Yelp

Krista K.

Yelp

Katey K.

Yelp

Ernest D.

Yelp

Patricia did a wonderful job educating us on the historical importance and significance of the buildings along the river tour.

Winnie L.

Yelp

Michael J.

Yelp

Great river tour. Learned a lot about the history of Chicago, buildings, architects, and structures. Got some beautiful photos. This was a 5:30pm tour.

Robyn P.

Yelp

Emily F.

Yelp

Frank R.

Yelp

Last chance for romance. Rain or shine, we are having fun. Nice tour guide, no tip accepted.

Chicago's First Lady

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