Scotsville is situated on the northern shoreline of Lake Ainslie, Cape Breton Island’s largest freshwater lake. Settlement began in the early 1800s, by Scottish Highlanders and Irish. Most became farmers: working farms surround the lake.

In 1978, residents formed the Lake Ainslie Historical Society. Their dedication to preserving the history of early pioneers manifested in a museum: the MacDonald House and Barn. The house was built in the mid-1800s by Charles MacDonald, son of Alexander MacDonald, a weaver who had arrived from the Isle of Mull, Scotland in 1923.

MacDonald House remains in its original condition, with evidence of its use as a home, farm, and – for 75 years – the local post office (which closed in 1956.) The house is open to the public during the summer months.