In 1791 Pierre Charles L'Enfant designed the plan for Washington , D.C. , and , recognizing the assets of the Anacostia River , located the city 's new commercial center and wharfs there .
In 1791 , Pierre Charles L'Enfant designed the plan for Washington D.C. and , recognizing the worth of the Anacostia River , set up the city 's new commercial center and wharfs there .