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.
13. Burning up
In the absence of any environmental concerns, the piles of collected leaves were simply burned in the middle of the Meadows - as is shown in this other picture from September 1959. Photo: Unknown
14. On the crease
Cricket is still played on the Meadows today. This picture shows the Public Parks six-a-side cricket event, with B. Reid and R.Bindman at the toss, in July 1965. Photo: Unknown
15. Bowled over
More sporting prowess on show here. Mrs J Watson is shown taking part in a match between the Ladies and the OAPs at the bowling greens at East Meadows. Photo: Unknown
16. Prizewinners
Bowling was a popular pastime in the Meadows in the 1960s. This picture shows the end-of-year presentation of prizes at the Meadows Bowling Club on November 9, 1963. Photo: Unknown