Welcome to Dana Bushong Jewelers, a legendary business with a rich history that spans 100 years. While many know us for our brilliant diamonds and quality jewelry, few are aware of the remarkable journey that has shaped our legacy.
Our journey began in 1919 when Dana Bushong and his father left Bay City, Michigan, in pursuit of a partnership with the renowned "Pen Man," WA Sheaffer, in Fort Madison, Iowa. Initially, Sheaffer showed little interest in the father-son duo, but their fate was about to take an unexpected turn, unveiling the remarkable talents hidden within them.
Having acquired the skill of forgery from an intriguing encounter with a prisoner back in Michigan, Dana Moser, the son, found an ingenious way to capture Sheaffer's attention. While introducing themselves to Sheaffer, the Bushongs noticed his signature on the desk. With a touch of creativity, Bushong quickly replicated his signature upside down and backwards. The moment Sheaffer laid eyes on his own "forged" signature, he couldn't help but be impressed. This extraordinary display paved the way for a new chapter in their lives.
Dana Moser joined Sheaffer's Jewelry Store, mastering the art of engraving and watch repair under the guidance of Royal Law from Laws Jewelry. They then ventured into engraving signatures on pens, a daring move that proved to be immensely successful. With time, Dana engraved over 40,000 signatures on Sheaffer's pens, earning a distinguished spot in the illustrious Ripley's Believe It or Not book of 1937.
Meanwhile, Dana's father relocated to Fort Madison in 1923, taking charge of the WA Sheaffer Jewelry store and incorporating the historic Theo Ernst Jewelry store, a local establishment dating back to the 1860s. Merging the two stores into one elegant entity, Dana Ulysses Bushong accomplished an extraordinary feat. On March 1st 1924, the rejuvenated store emerged under a single name: Theo Ernst Jewelry Store, paying homage to its rich history. Impressed by their dedication and success, Sheaffer promised the Bushongs all his cases and the opportunity to relocate the business if they continued to thrive.
After several fruitful months, Dana Bushong decided to officially change the name and the store underwent a transformation that marked the birth of Dana Bushong Jewelers. Relocating to 805 Avenue G, the new store adorned its premises with Sheaffer's wall cases and clocks, carrying forward the legacy of craftsmanship and style.
In 1933, Dana Bushong and his wife Elizabeth officially incorporated Dana Bushong Jewelers Co Inc, making it the 19th jewelry store in Iowa. Together, they nurtured the store, ensuring its esteemed reputation and contributing to the community's economic growth. Sadly, in 1957, Dana passed away, leaving Elizabeth to continue their enduring legacy.
The transition posed a unique challenge for Elizabeth as she was unaware of the combination to open the store's safe. Determined to carry forward the family business, she called upon a skilled prisoner from down the street at the Iowa State Penitentiary to crack open the safe, a moment that signified the indomitable spirit of Dana Bushong Jewelers. Elizabeth successfully led the store until 1981, displaying her unwavering commitment to both the business and her role as a trailblazing woman in the community. She shattered barriers, becoming the first woman to join boards and committees in Fort Madison, inspiring generations of women to strive for success in the business world.
In 1981, Elizabeth passed the torch of Dana Bushong Jewelers to her daughter Jane Bushong, who married Russell Young of Chicago, IL. Both Jane and Russell had their own unique experiences – Jane as a hand model for Sheaffer's television commercials and Russell working on the set of the Jackie Gleason show in Chicago. In 1981 Jane decided to return to Fort Madison to assume the responsibility of running Dana Bushong Jewelers. Combining the best of her experiences, Jane introduced the captivating allure of the Chicago market to Fort Madison, breathing new life into the store.
Recognizing that Dana Bushong Jewelers required a united family effort, Jane enlisted the help of her children. Together, they embarked on a journey of trial and error, discovering the ideal path to success. Ultimately, the torch passed to Russell "Skip" Young and his soon-to-be wife, Michele Dearing, whom he met at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. Becoming the sole owners of Dana Bushong Jewelers after their wedding on June 1, 1985.
Skip Young cherishes fond memories of his initial plan, intending to sell the business and embark on a new adventure. However, Michele's deep love and dedication to Dana Bushong Jewelers changed their course. Embracing her role as the driving force behind the business, Michele immersed herself in the community, leaving an indelible impact on the jewelry industry and the hearts of those she encountered. Michele's meticulous attention to detail elevated the store's displays, capturing the essence of beauty and elegance. It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Michele, who sadly passed away on September 8, 2023, leaving behind a profound legacy.
Undeterred by adversity, Skip, together with their daughters Lauren and Katherine, now carry the torch of Dana Bushong Jewelers. Eager to honor their mother's memory, they continue to be active participants in the community, attending tourism meetings, embellishing the town's landscape with their artistic talents, and ensuring the store thrives through impeccable marketing strategies.
That's our story – how we got here and why we're committed to the growth and success of our community. It started with a love for engraving and has organically grown into something much bigger. Over the years, the faces of Dana Bushong Jewelers may have changed, but the loyalty and legacy remains the same. This loyalty has created a special space where strangers become customers, customers become friends, and friends become family. Our success is owed to the support and trust of the community, fellow business owners, and especially our employees.
At Dana Bushong Jewelers, we are dedicated to providing high quality, affordable, and meaningful jewelry that connects people with their loved ones and the world around them. We take pride in being a go-to destination for special moments and special people in our community.
Come check us out and become part of our family too!