Fishtail, named after Fishtail Butte, an outcropping of rocks resembling a fish's tail, began with a country post office in 1901. A general store was set up at about the same time, providing services to the many homesteaders in the area. The historic general store still operates in the same location today.

Dean, named after a young mountain maiden, is located at the foot of Fishtail Butte. In the early 1900's, T.C. Benbow discovered the largest chrome deposit in the western hemisphere. The Benbow Mine, located a few miles from Dean on Benbow Road, brought many families to the area. In those days, the small community had a school, post office and bar. Today, a restaurant and saloon occupy the property. The old school is maintained and used for community get togethers.

Fishtail Family Fun Day, an annual event, is held in June. Previous years have seen parades, a carnival for kids, a community yard sale, food and entertainment. It's a fun filled day with lots of surprises that you won't want to miss. All proceeds support the Community Center/Library and the Fishtail Family Park.