Tucked away, just adjacent to Branch shopping center in Smithtown is a shop that draws the loyal hobbyists.
3 Guys Hobbies has been around for about 30 years, though not always in their current location. The store carries a host of different hobbyist pursuits but their main game is trains.
Tom, who has worked in the store on and off for 20 years said the store began with three guys and their love of trains.
"We had a railroad club that met in the basement of a local church,"said Tom, who declined to give his last name. "We were located on Main Street across from American Roadside Burgers until about nine years ago when we relocated here."
The store was in its height in the late 70's when train collecting was popular. Times have changed though, said Tom and kids are more interested in social media and video games.
"Our customers on average are in their 60's," said Tom. "We still get the occasional father and son who come in."
As for Tom, he said his two-car garage is packed with boxes of trains.
"Trains are made so well now. They are ready to run right out of the box," said Tom. "My biggest regret is not having bought a house with a basement."
Though the store is quiet throughout most of the year, the holidays still draws a crowd.
"Christmas is our busiest time of the year," said Tom, "In the old days, there would be a line into the street."
Are you a train collector? Tell us how things have changed over the years.
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