Frederick Placier
Frederick Placier, London, proprietor London Mills, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, October 2, 1834. His father was George Placier, who married Katrina Boisal, also a native of Germany. They resided in their native country till their death, the former dying in 1861, and the latter in 1863. They were the parents of fourteen children, seven daughters and seven sons, thirteen now living, seven residents of America, but our subject the only one in this county. He was reared in Germany, and obtained a fair education. He learned the miller's trade, and when nineteen years of age came to America. He remained in New York State six months, and thence went to Lehigh County, Penn., where he worked on a farm for six years. In 1860, he located in Pickaway County, Ohio, engaged in farming a few years, married and then bought a flouring mill in Walnut Township. He operated this mill from 1865 to 1874, and then came to London. At this time, there was no grist mill in the village, all flour being shipped in from neighboring cities and villages. Mr. Placier erected the present London Mills at a cost of $12,000, and has been very successful in his milling operations. He was one of the organizers of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church of London, and at present is a Trustee and Treasurer of the official board. He is Democratic in politics, but has never been an ardent politician. Mr. Placier was married April 17, 1854, to Sophronia Scothorn. a native of Hancock County, Ohio, and daughter of Louis and Susannah Scothorn, natives of Ohio. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Placier, four living -- Charles R., William A., Henry W. and Harry W. (twins). Lizietta is deceased. Mrs. Placier and sons are also members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Placier is a prominent German citizen of Madison County, an enterprising manufacturer, and a man highly esteemed by all of his acquaintances.
From HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY - W. H. Beers [Chicago, 1883]