Commissioned to raise five battalions in 1775, Lieutenant-colonel Allan MacLean only raised two, a total of about 400men. Defended Quebec in 1775-1776, guarded frontier in 1777. Uniform kilts gave way to breeches in 1781, and a hatchet replaced the traditional broadsword.
Following the war, many settled in easterly royal townships and in the Cataraqui Townships.