The Heath was acquired as a public open space in 1871, and additional land was purchased in 1888 and 1889, respectively. Shortly after the first acquisition, the Bank Holidays Act of 1871 established four national day-long holidays: Easter Day, Boxing Day and the first Mondays in May and August.

The Heath hosted a fair on the May and August bank holidays, and 'Appy 'Ampstead became part of national conversation in the 1890s, celebrated in song and cartoons.

These pictures were captured at 'Appy' Ampstead, and possibly other London parks.

