Throughout the first half of the century, the suburban community grew quickly, and local residents desired quality shopping within their local setting. Their vision began to take shape in 1949 when the Prudential Insurance Company of America acquired a large tract of land where The Mall at Short Hills and part of the Canoe Brook Country Club now sit. Seven years later, B. Altman & Company opened a 130,000-square-foot store on the land and eventually added an additional 50,000 square feet to meet market demands. Local residents continued their demand for expanded retailing and in the early '60s, a small center opened. The open-air center included Bonwit Teller along with retailers such as FAO Schwarz, Pottery Barn and Brentano's. The momentum continued as America's largest Bloomingdale's premiered on the site in 1967. The 243,000-square-foot store included an entire floor devoted to furniture and decorative accessories. In addition, smaller "boutiques" were created in the store such as, Young World, Delicacies Shop, Au Gourmet, a men's store, and a Stouffer's restaurant.