The band was formed in August 1979 as the Garrett Highlanders, founded and organized by the late Hon. Fred A. Thayer and Charles P. “Chip” Evans. Officially adopted by the college in 1989, the band continued to be an affiliate program of the institution until 2007. The band, now known as the Garrett Highlands Pipes and Drums, today is sponsored by the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department. The band also has served as host band for the McHenry Highland Festival since the Festival’s inception in 1988.

To honor its late founder and long-time beloved Pipe Major, Fred Thayer, the band adopted the Colquhoun tartan as its official kilt pattern. Thayer’s mother was a descendant of the Colquhoun clan. The retired Pipe Sergeant Emeritus, the Reverend John Grant, is honored with the swatches of the Grant tartan worn on each member's bonnet.

Bascially a marching band in the Scottish military tradition, the GHP&D also serves as a teaching band. Instruction is offered in both piping and drumming. The band, or individual members, are also available for hire for various private functions and civic events.