With about $10,000 worth of Irish goods, before marrying his new American bride, AT Stewart opened his first dry goods store, selling Irish fabrics and domestic calicos.  Located on Broadway, a few blocks away from the rest of the dry goods stores in Pearl Street, he opened one across City Hall Park, Stewart turned out to have quite a knack for retail.  He believed in good prices, no advertising and excellent customer service.  He was so successful that he moved to what eventually became the entire city block across the street.

Rented for $375 a year, it measured 12.5 feet wide by 30 feet deep, he did not use any advertisements until May 13, 1831