Nicholas Schaeffer

Nicholas Schaeffer (1814-1880) was an American industrialist. He is noted as one of the founders of the American company, Schaeffer Oil. He was also known as one of the largest and most prosperous soap manufacturers in the West during his time.

Biography Schaeffer was born on December 4, 1814, in Marlem, Alsace, France. His father, who was a shoemaker, died when Schaeffer was only two years old, leaving his mother to raise him and six other children. Schaeffer took in odd jobs including works for a tannery and a quarry. He also became a steward in a hotel before relocating to Saint Louis in 1839. It was in this city where Schaeffer established the beginnings of his candle and soap empire, which was established as Schaeffer Manufacturing Co. in the same year. The lubricants were produced from animal fats, which were also the main ingredient for Schaeffer's soaps and candles. The company expanded to the manufacture of engine oil for steamships and grease for Conestoga wagons. Noted products include the Black Beauty Grease for covered wagons and Red Engine Oil, which was a lubricant for steamboats.