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| The British Indian Department aka B.I.D. |
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| One of the most important organizations within the British colonial government during the war was the Indian Department. They were responsible for maintaining good relations with the Native allies. They were also responsible for rallying the tribes into an effective military ally. The Indian Department distributed the traditional yearly "presents" to cement the alliances with the many nations friendly to the British. They also sat in at Native councils. |
| The Indian Department commonly employed men whose ties with the Natives were particularly strong. Men like Matthew Elliott, Thomas McKee, Robert Dickson, and William Caldwell were all officers of the Department at various times in their lives. While not part of the British Army, its officers were given military rank - the head superintendent was a colonel, and the regional superintendents, like Eliott, were ranked as captains. The officers, like the army, wore red coats on the field. The individual oficers would also incorporate items of Native dress and significance into their appearance. |
| The indian Department also employed guides, interpreters, storekeepers, and clerks. One of their major outposts was at Fort Malden in Amherstburg. |
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