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The future of the hobby we all love.
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Posted by Bryan in Michigan on September 19, 2002 at 14:05:47 from (216.93.124.242):
I wanted to bring up a topic that's been on my mind for a couple years now. I wanted to hear what you think. I'm 29 years old. My dad (age 70) started collecting and fixing up old tractors and engines long before I was born. He bought his first "antique" in about 1955, an old Ideal lawnmower. We still have it, of course. I have been an antique tractor and engine enthusiast for, literally, as long as I can remember. Some of the first sounds I heard were of Farmalls and Johnny Poppers in the barn. Most folks my age couldn't say that. There is nothing around that interests me more than this hobby we are all enjoying. I go to as many summer shows with my dad as I can. I also spend as much time in the shop with him as my job allows. But lately, I have developed some
serious doubts about the future of the antique tractor and engine hobby. I suspect it's peaking right now, but I hope not. I harbor a fear that tomorrow's society will be too far removed from the farm to appreciate big, lumbering Rumely OilPulls and beautiful Stickney stationaries. There will always be collectors and enthusiasts, but I fear not many. I so hope I am wrong. I know that young people can be reached, because I am a prime example. I'm not yet 30, and I've never really farmed a day in my life. But, the sound of these old engines is music to my ears. Numerous times, I've had the distinct pleasure of backing a big prairie tractor into the belt on a sawmill, or seen dramatic spark shows light up the night. I've talked endlessly to old men who remember threshing runss like they happened yesterday. I've come to respect what these men and machines have given us (which is nothing less than modern civilization itself), and I hope to help keep the memories alive. I know you folks have the same idea in mind. I hope my pessimism is proved wrong, and I hope that 30 years from now our machines will still be loved and appreciated and sought after. I don't want to be there when today's old iron treasures go unwanted and unsold at auction. Tell me it's not going to happen.
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