Richland Township was established in 1833 when it was created from part of Conemaugh Township. The township is generally triangular in shape. It is bordered on the East by Adams Township, on the West by Conemaugh and Stonycreek Townships and on the South by the Paint and Conemaugh Townships of Somerset County. Within the confines of its borders lie two independent Boroughs (Geistown & Scalp Level).

  As the township's name implies, it was a "Rich Land" suitable for farming, lumber and mining. Throughout the 19th and first half of the 20th century these remained the primary industries.

   Following World War Two, residential growth spurted in the area and by the late 1900's much of the former farming area had been converted to  residential or commercial use.  Today, despite the general decline of heavy industry in Cambria County, Richland continues to be a hub for light manufacturing, transportation, and commerce.