Re: Tractors and young people

Posted by CenTex Farmall on September 25, 2011 at 23:49:02 from (166.147.72.29):

In Reply to: Tractors and young people posted by oldtanker on September 25, 2011 at 09:54:41:

I know what you mean. I'm not exactly young but not quite middle aged either.

A lot of it has to do with how our society has evolved and become (in my opinion) too dependent on technology to do things for you and too "quick fix" "gotta have it now".

Antique farm equipment strikes a good balance between human skill and technology. Planting or cultivating for example takes skill, vigilance and constant attention and at the end of the day you are rewarded with straight rows and a good stand of crops. You are directly involved in a literally hands on way.

Fixing up or restoring an old tractor provides the same type of experience.

It's about doing something challenging that involves all 5 senses. You are doing something productive that also requires skill and creativity.

Generally speaking the younger generation has been more heavily exposed to abstract experiences and notions of work. Too much media pushing young minds this way and that. Facebook vs. family gatherings, texting vs. phone calls, American Idol vs. Grand Ol' Oprey. So much happening faster than you don't have time to absorb and think about it.

To us the old tractors and equipment are representative of ideas we share of accepting that there's hard work to be done and taking joy in doing that work.

So out of all that, I think there's more to it than just the music. It's a difference in overall point of view and way of thinking.

Back to your original question of how to reach out and inspire the younger generation, I think you're on the right track with skill type events and demonstrations. I think it helps when there is operating equipment: hay presses, belted wood working equipment, threshing machines. It shows how the stuff is used and helps develop an appreciation of step by step craftsmanship. As some mentioned, the equip being accessible vs. roped off (within reasonable safety) helps.

The good news is that the older generation of tractor/equipment enthusiasts have the right disposition and people skills to reach out. The overwhelming majority of people I talk to at tractor shows are very approachable, friendly and happy to talk. Makes a good lasting impression.

I can tell you this story about myself. I also have an appreciation of WWII aircraft and aviation. I remember going to C.A.F. airshows in my single digit years and trying to talk to the old guys sitting around the Corsairs, mustangs and what have you. These old C.A.F. guys would not give me the time of day. They were the most rude, snobish and arrogant bunch of A-h@les that I have ever had the misfortune of meeting at a public event.
So, a good example of how _not_ to be!

Replies:

Add a Reply Name: E-Mail: Subject: Comments: Optional Link URL: Link Title: Optional Image URL: Optional Video Title: Optional Video URL: Advanced Posting Options Email Notification: If you check this box, email will be sent to you whenever someone replies to this message. Your email address must be entered above to receive notification. This notification will be cancelled automatically after 2 weeks.   Advanced Posting Tools   Upload Photo  Select Gallery Photo  Attach Serial # List  Return to Post

TRACTOR PARTS	TRACTOR MANUALS

We sell tractor parts!  We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today. [ About Us ]