Office of Steam Forum for Model & Toy Steam Gas & Hot Air Engines

Well some of the older people/hobbieists have a lot to answer for .
I started years ago collecting steam toys , the tin / brass type .
I have been interested in the model engineering side but when i have gone to a couple of model engineering shows and show some interest in various models and start talking to the builders all goes  well until i mention that
I repair the tin /brass type i get dismissed  with “ oh those are just toys and we are not bothered”
Conversation to a pretty quick end .
How do these geriatric old farts expect the younger generation to take up the hobby.
I have more interest in my toys from those who own/operate full size steam TEs and SRs
 Some of my own daughters are interested in my steam toys but the son only sees the monetary value