@Richie C. posted:....How many of us can be absolutely sure that, if we grew up today instead of decades ago, that we would have the same interest in trains and model railroads ?
As others have stated, for today's kids it is not just being exposed to trains (real or model/toy), but that there are so many other hobbies/distractions out there then when I was a kid. Back then model trains, slot cars, and control line airplanes were about it for powered toys. Plus we had our wired, one line telephone for social media. I will say that my much older brother, when forced to babysit, would take me to the UP or SP mainline to watch trains. He definitely had the train gene.
For my Civil Air Patrol cadets we have sessions with radio control quadcopters, fixed wing aircraft, and to a lessor extend ground vehicles (we are AIR Force). We have a whole program in rocketry that can lead to advanced qualification in National level model rocketry programs. The Air Force is investing in teaching our cadets computer technology and cyber security. And that doesn't even touch gaming or social media. Maybe there is too much out there.
Anyway, forget the children. They will enjoy your trains, or not. I believe the hobby will continue if marketed correctly to adults because it is a great hobby for stay at home folks and especially retirement. While there are some that may look down on our hobby, we just need to speak up more about it. I find there are more folks out there that show interest then expected.
