Milnet, originally known as Sellwood Junction, began its journey in the early 20th century as a remote station and watering stop for the Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR, later CN). The railway line's arrival marked the beginning of an intense period of lumbering activity in the area. Shortly after the railway line opened, the lumber industry moved in, leading to the establishment of a sawmill on the shores of the Vermillion River. By 1917, the Marshay Lumber Company had bought and expanded the mill, adding a planning mill and transforming the area into a bustling company townsite with about 200 residents.
