Russia Township was originally part of Black River Township. Thomas Waite (whose sons were the first settlers of Pittsfield Township) moved his family from Amherst to what would become Russia Township in 1818 to become the first settler of the township. In 1825 the residence petition and were granted separation from Black River Township.  

Russia Township, the changed the name to "New Russia" became effective on January 1, 1992. As of the 2020 census the population was 2,404.