The 85th Division (Chinese: 第85师) was created in February 1949 under the Regulation of the Redesignations of All Organizations and Units of the Army, issued by Central Military Commission on November 1, 1948, basing on the 31st Brigade, 11th Column of Huadong Field Army.
Its history could be traced to 31st Brigade, 7th Column of Huazhong Field Army formed in September 1946.
Under the flag of 29th Corps it took part in the Chinese civil war.
Its 253rd Regiment suffered heavy loss in the battle of Kinmen.
The division was transferred to Fuzhou Military Region's control after the disbandment of 29th Corps in October 1950.