mdj wrote:
> On Feb 9, 12:23 pm, David Schmenk  wrote:
>> Michael J. Mahon wrote:
>>
>> [snip]
>>
>>> I've been curious over the years about how the average age of the
>>> community is changing with time.  I'm sure it's not increasing at
>>> the rate of a year per year, but it probably isn't much lower.
>>> -michael

>> Interestingly, this same discussion crops up every once in awhile on the
>> BMW 2002 group site.  Although the number of cars decreases each year
>> and the average age probably increases, there is a pretty core group
>> that continues make parts available and sharing knowledge with the
>> younger crowd.  I see a great deal of similarity between the two.  I
>> think machines that defined a market will always be around in some
>> capacity or another.  Model T's are still around and running.  I think
>> the enthusiasm shown by many on c.s.a2 certainly points to a bright
>> future - especially with all the new projects being discussed.  I can't
>> even keep up!
> 
> I think there's a large subset within the group of people who "grew
> up" with the Apple II, and a few senior members who were
"grown up"
> when the Apple II was new. But I suspect those of us in the 30-45 age
> group will continue to keep the the average age climbing *almost*
> linearly. Alas in 30-40 years, it'll start to drop dramatically :-)
> 
> For me at least (I'm 33 this year) the Apple II has been a life-long
> love affair. I suspect it'll last a lifetime too. There will no doubt
> be plenty in the younger brigade to carry on the torch, just as there
> are those playing with carburettors today who were born long after
> fuel injection was the norm :-)

I certainly hope so!

The comparison to the Model T is quite apt:  both the Apple II and
the Model T:

- Were simple, robust, integrated designs,
- Defined the start of a new mainstream product,
- Were made to be worked on with a few common tools,
- Attracted and supported legions of after-market suppliers,
- Imprinted indelibly on a large population,
- Gave a new kind of freedom to their users.

-michael

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