Until around 1920 the Meadows was used to graze animals and it was only after the demise of this practice did it become a public park.
Further back still it contained a loch, known as the South Loch, which was drained in the 18th century to create the familiar expanse of grass with a park with a path round the edge.
A full right of public access was introduced in middle of the 19th century, when new paths were added criss-crossing the park – some of which remain in use today, including Middle Meadows Walk.
In the 1870s the Meadows were used by both Hearts and Hibs football teams, with the first derby between the sides held there on Christmas Day 1875.
A large glass pavilion sprung up in the park for the 1886 International Exhibition of Industry, Science and Art, with an arch made from whale’s jawbones created as part of the Zetland and Fair Isle Knitters Association’s display. The path is still called Jawbone Walk today.
By the 1950s and 1960s the park was largely used for recreation, but also for a few other more unusual purposes – even receiving a special royal visit.
Here are 18 pictures to take you back to those days.
9. Recruiting
This picture shows another army event - this time in September 1962 - when the 40th Regiment Royal Artillery were recruiting. A group of schoolboys are seen showing a keen interest in a self-propelled gun. Photo: Unknown
10. Rescue operation
After the snow cleared the Meadows continued to be used for regular dummy helicopter rescue operations - this one pictured on October 8, 1963. Photo: Unknown
11. Frozen fun
Some things never change and children on sledges are still attracted to the Meadows when snow falls - just like this group of youngsters pictured on Boxing Day 1961, with Warrender Park Terrace in the background. Photo: Unknown
12. Autumnal scene
In the Autumns of the 1950s, in the absence of leaf blowers and other gadgetry. piles of fallen leaves were swept up and rolled away in carts in a fairly labour-intensive process. This picture was taken in September 1959. Photo: Unknown