So many reasons, but I think it started in the mid-1950s, when the Pennsy K4s were still alive on the NY&LB. (and to a little kid, they were ALIVE!) I lived near that busy line for most of my life and saw so many different types of power in constant turnover. CNJ pass trains with Trainmasters, Baby Trainmasters, and GP7s. Freights with GP7S and RS3s on the point. Pennsy pass power of Sharknoses and E-units, and RS11s on freight duty. Lots of passenger trains all day, and a couple peddler freights. Lots of variety.
As I grew up, I just couldn't get enough. I met the crossing watchmen still working, I talked with freight crews and got a few cab rides, rode CNJ flat-top caboose 91382 from Bradley Beach to Red Bank (safely hidden inside), a cab ride in an RS3 from Bradley to Belmar and back to drill a few cars, getting to sit inside a PRR E7 parked by our house, waiting for a breakdown ahead to be cleared (Dad got an 8mm film of me doing that, I was about 7 or 8). So much "train stuff" around me.
I parlayed this into a working membership at a railroad museum, eventually becoming licensed as a steam loco engineer.
I still believe it is a great hobby and pasttime. And yes, like so many others, I kick myself for not having a camera with me all those times.
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