Romano, Allison (July 28, 2003). "Spike to Start, Finally, Aug. 11". Broadcasting & Cable. The signing of the Residence Act on July 16, 1790, authorised the development of a cash district located along the Potomac River around the country's East Coast. The City of Washington was started in 1791 to serve as the national cash, and Congress held its 1st session there in 1800.