Johnston City is located on I-57 as well as Rt. 37, between Marion and West Frankfort.  Like most of Southern Illinois towns, it is a former coal-mining town and currently has a population of 3,284 residents.  It is part of Williamson County, one of the largest counties in Illinois, which also includes Carterville, Herrin and Marion.

Banterra established a branch in Johnston City in 2014.  It is located at 908 Grand Avenue, next to Shamrock Antiques and close to McDonald’s and Bandy Drugs.

Johnston City was created initially as a stop for the Chicago, Paducah and Memphis Railroad.  The railroad named their station in honor of Ben F. and P.M Johnston, brothers who owned the firm which was one of the largest railroad construction firms at the time.  The village plat was surveyed in 1894.  Residents of Jeffersonville, a nearby village, began to move to this new town and eventually merged with Johnston City.  The town was incorporated in 1896 and the post office was officially changed to Johnston City in 1903.

The first coal mine in Johnston City was created in 1902 and immigrant miners from Italy, Wales and other areas arrived to work in the coal mines.  Old Ben Coal Company would come into the picture in 1920 and after 15 years of operation, water from underground lakes began to flood areas of the mine.  Multiple measures were taken, but the water was relentless.  Mine after mine closed in Johnston City due to this.

Today, Johnston City has small businesses and you could still experience a bit of history at places like Andresen’s Café.  This café was opened in 1927, originally as a confectionery, by Alf and Hjordis Andresen, immigrants from Norway.  Much of the café is in its original condition and is still a popular eatery for the region.

Johnston City Community Unit School District 1 includes Jefferson and Lincoln Elementary Schools, Washington Middle School and Johnston City High School, home to the Johnston City Indians.  Banterra supports these schools, as well as youth athletics and community events such as City of Johnston City Fireworks Spectacular and the City of Johnston City Easter Egg Hunt.

Thank You for Choosing Banterra Bank in Johnston City, Illinois 

Banterra Bank knows you have your choice of Johnston City 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 Johnston City branch.