Placentia is a city located in northern Orange County, California. It has a population of 51,233 as of the 2020 census, showing an increase from 46,488 in 2000. The city includes the community of Atwood, which is situated in its southeastern quadrant. Placentia is primarily known as a bedroom community with quiet neighborhoods.

In 1971, Placentia received the prestigious “All America City” award, which is given annually by the National Civic League to ten cities in the United States.

The town’s development began around 1910, evolving from a few scattered ranches. It gained significance as a major railroad stop along the Santa Fe Railroad, particularly for processing oranges. During the Great Depression, there was a brief strike by citrus workers in Placentia.

In 1919, oil was discovered, leading to the establishment of numerous oil wells in eastern and northern Placentia. The town of Richfield, later known as Atwood, was built to accommodate oil workers. The majority of the labor force in the oil industry consisted of Mexican laborers. Similarly, the neighboring town of La Jolla, Placentia was developed as a segregated colonia for similar reasons.