Was a young man, Milt Herbert saw an opportunity during the post-World War II housing boom to go into the lumber business by starting a sawmill in 1945 in Eugene, Ore. Herbert and some partners operated the portable sawmill for a few years, and in 1948 he headed to Northern California to search for cheaper timber.
An intended overnight stay in Canyonville became permanent when friends persuaded him to stay. Herbert moved his hand-built mill to Canyonville and set up an Army surplus tent for his family at what is now Herbert’s Pond east of town. In 1962, Herbert began building a large sawmill at the present Herbert Lumber Co. site near Riddle.
Herbert and his employees contributed many hours to community service, and in 1953 Herbert participated in founding Canyonville’s first bank, known around the state today as Umpqua Bank. Herbert has served on several boards of directors, including for the South County schools, a wild animal park in Winston, and professional associations.
In February of this year, the Douglas County Museum presented 87-year-old Herbert with its Legacy Award, granted annually to residents who have significantly impacted the history of Douglas County.
Source: George, Christina. "Herbert Lumber Co. Founder to Be Honored." The News-Review 6 Feb. 2014 [Roseburg, Ore.] : A1+. Print.
