It started in January 2001, if memory servies, although preparations begain the previous October.
Seven writers were employed as Channel Producers to moderate the original sections, provide three weekly features on their section, and answer the incoming questions - this all changed when the site proved popular enough to 'stand alone'
A batch of questions for each section was created by the Producers and the (then) site owners to kick things off - and then it picked up with real questions from there, so there is no 'first question' as such.
Hope that answers your question - if you want to know more, ask away - I am one of the original CP's - I did Music.