Christopher, located in Franklin County, has a population of 2,625 people and is located on Rt. 148 and 25 minutes from I-57.  In Banterra’s Southern Illinois footprint, our Marion administrative office is located near Rt. 148, and traveling north, you would pass our Herrin branch, continue through Zeigler and then arrive to our branch in Christopher, located at 506 N. Victor St. which is also on Rt. 148. 

Banterra’s Christopher branch was established in 1984.  You’ll find regional dining favorites nearby like Larry’s Pit BBQ, Maid Rite Sandwich Shoppe and T Street Pub.  Banterra supports community events such as the Lion’s Club Fall Festival, the Market Street Trunk & Treat, as well as youth sports.

Christopher began as a railroad stop in 1879, named for Christopher Harrison, a grandson of a prominent early settler Isham Harrison.  A post office followed and the community voted to become a village in 1903, then as a city in 1910.

In 1906, United Coal Mining Company opened a mine near Christopher; it was later sold to Old Ben Coal Corporation and closed in 1929.  Like other Southern Illinois towns, during this time period, coal mining and railroads allowed these downtowns to thrive.

Today, Christopher has small businesses, but also larger businesses such as Blachere Illumination.  For more than 50 years, Blachere Illumination has provided holiday and special event décor and lighting to over 80 countries across the globe.

Christopher Unit 99 Schools include Christopher Elementary School and Christopher High School, home to the Christopher Bearcats.

Thank You for Choosing Banterra Bank in Christopher, Illinois 

Banterra Bank knows you have your choice of Christopher banks. Through attentive customer service and products that help you manage your finances well, we work hard to earn your business. Thank you for choosing Banterra Bank and the Christopher branch.