Originally settled by the English Quakers from Chester County as early as 1730, and German immigrants from the York and Hanover areas in the late 18th century, much of the land now encompassed by Fairview Township was part of Pennsborough Township, Lancaster County.

In the mid-18th century, the area known as New Market was owned by John Harris, founding father of Harrisburg and a trader with the large Shawnee Indian settlement at the mouth of Yellow Breeches Creek.

The growth of this particular portion of the township was due, in large part, to the establishment of a ferry across the Susquehanna River and the York-Harrisburg Road, which passed through the area.

Fairview Township began as an agricultural area, with only a small amount of industry and trade.

Because of its primary agricultural base, township population growth was very slow after the initial settlement.

The development of better highway systems and the suburban growth of the Harrisburg area have greatly changed portions of the township over the last 50 years.

The Ashton-Hursh House and Etters Bridge are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.