I think that no matter the subject, group, or affiliation you are always going to come across those few 'contrary' people that seem to speak/act on behalf of the rest. Despite what the rest might really think! Most of us don't want to suffer the wrath of the outspoken contrary few so we just keep quiet and hope you stick around long enough to find your niche in the group. DH and I have had this happen in other social clubs - some we decided to stick out and finally fit in, others we decided just were not worth it and we went else where.
IMHO, for an older quilter to be unwelcoming to a younger quilter is absurd. We young quilters are the future of this craft and will be the ones to carry on their legacy. Without our appreciation of what they have achieved and crafted, old quilts wouldn't be preserved and cherished by the next generation. Unknowingly far too many a work of art would be relegated to the 'dog blanket' just because it doesn't match someone's new decor!
Good luck and persevere!