Vintage tools, high tech equipment and your imagination meet at Fossil Forge, a unique design company that creates signage, furniture, sculpture, retail and restaurant decor, railings, gates and much more.
Dave Eames is the creative mind behind the iconic shop in downtown Lee’s Summit, where he also hosts two other artists who create a variety of objects in wood, metal and other materials. While Fossil Forge works with customers across the United States, the business is important to the local economy.
“We believe in impacting and influencing our town by designing beautiful and functional things that everyone can be proud of,” Eames says.
Fossil Forge began in his garage in 2003.
“The shop is named as a tribute to my parents. My Dad was a geologist research scientist and the turtle in our logo is a nod to my Mom, who worked at the zoo with animals.”
In 2015, he and his wife, Kelly, who teaches at Lee’s Summit Elementary School, along with their next door neighbors and business partners, purchased a vacant building at 317 B Main Street. This was a crucial step in the growth of the business. Fossil Forge now has the space to work on a larger variety of projects, and most importantly, they also have an inviting showplace where customers can visit and see their amazing work.
“Plus, we could be a part of the ongoing revitalization of downtown and take part in downtown events,” Eames says.
The feeling of community is what led him and his wife to raise their family and start a business in Lee’s Summit.
“Downtown is filled with history, character and wonderful people,” says Eames. “There are so many stories around each corner, along each street and in each building.”
He’s a strong advocate for the future of downtown, working with other residents and businesses owners to guide the neighborhood forward.
“Downtown Lee’s Summit is a place that people care about, and therefore want to protect and see thrive,” he says. “We believe it is the cultural and creative heart of our city.”