Highland Manor owners build a new life in Cadiz

Scott Vorhees is a Harrison County native who spent nearly 40 years in California before returning to his roots. He moved west after attending college in Columbus and met his partner, Ben Nicholson.

The couple returned to Ohio in 2021 and moved into the Cochran mansion in Cadiz. When they purchased the historic home, they planned to raise Highland cattle and dubbed the property “Highland Manor.”

However, rising cattle prices forced them to put that dream on hold.

“We had this pasture land, this was it,” Nicholson said. “And just as we got settled, the price went through the roof. So we took our time to make sure everything was in place.”

Last year, the couple purchased two Highland cows, Addy and Bonnie, from a ranch near Tappan Lake.

“They were babies, about 9 months old,” Nicholson said. “Now they’ll be 2 in March or April. This coming July we’ll have them bred, and that will start our own line of Highlands here in Cadiz. We’ll build a herd from there.”

Nicholson said raising cattle has long been a goal, noting his family operates a cattle ranch in California.

Vorhees and Nicholson also plan to continue making small renovations to the home in the coming years. The Cochran mansion was built in 1805, and the couple said they have enjoyed meeting members of the Cochran family over time.

“Many of the Cochran family descendants have been to visit us,” Nicholson said. “We show them the house they remember, and we’ve had some really nice visits with them.”

So far, the homeowners have painted, added wallpaper and filled rooms with vintage and antique furniture. They said they are not pursuing a full restoration, but want to maintain the historic feel while adding personal touches.

Both men are also involved with the Harrison County Humane Society. They recently adopted an 18-month-old puppy from the shelter and said they are looking forward to seeing how she adjusts to the other animals on the property. Their animals include three cats, about 50 chickens, a horse adopted from the humane society a few years ago, two donkeys and the Highland cows.

The couple has experience in fundraising and hosts the humane society’s annual Christmas in July craft show in their barn.

Vorhees and Nicholson said they enjoy caring for their animals, living in the historic home and being part of the community. They attend local fundraisers when they can and often spend evenings in uptown Cadiz with friends. They also have family in the county and relatives across the country who visit regularly.