Lord Francis Nevile Reid, a member of a wealthy Scottish family, spent approximately 40 years of his life in Amalfi. Afflicted by health problems from a young age, during a trip to Italy, he discovered the benefits of the air in Ravello, above Amalfi, and decided to settle there. He purchased several plots of land and the Rufoli family Palace, which was falling into ruin, transforming it into his residence.
Reid meticulously restored the Palace, preserving its ancient features, and providing employment to the local people, thereby improving their living conditions. Additionally, he commissioned the construction of a carriage road to Amalfi, opening up new opportunities for prosperity in the region.