He was born circa 1757. His father was Jose Vela, and his mother was Maria Felipa Selvera. His father owned land in Porción 9, Mier, Porción 12, Mier. In 1782, he lived in Santa Isabel de Peña Blanca in household number 126. The church census recorded that he was single, español, and 25 years old. His household included 8 people.