William P. McCowan (Willie) was born in 1820 in East Auchanbeg, Lesmahagow Parish, Lanarkshire, Scotland.  In 1833 he emigrated to Scarborough with his father James, mother Margaret, and siblings.

McCowan Log Cabin, Scarborough Museum

In 1848 Willie purchased 100 acres, the north half of Lot 13, Concession 4 which included the log house.  It was located on the banks of Wilcot Creek in the northern part of the Malvern area in Scarborough.  Willie farmed the land and kept sheep and cattle.  By 1871 he had 46 acres of pasture, 2 acres of orchard and 35 acres of hay.  He remained a bachelor until his death in 1902.

The building had additions and renovations made over the years and was moved to the Thornbeck property on Littles Road in 1948.

In 1974 the building was moved once more to the Scarborough Museum in Thomson Memorial Park.  The museum is part of the City of Toronto, Cultural Services. Historic photos and extensive research resulted in a major restoration project in 1990 returning the building to its appearance circa 1850.

Interior of the McCowan Log Cabin, Scarborough Museum.