He was born circa 1789. His father was Francisco Javier Canales, and his mother was Maria Gertrudis Salinas.
In 1791, he lived in Mier in household number 24. The church census recorded that he was a young child, español, and 2 years old. His household included 6 people:
Francisco Javier Canales, married, español, age 31.
Maria Gertrudis Salinas, married, española, age 24.
Maria Clara Canales, a young child, española, age 6.
Jose Antonio Canales, a young child, español, age 4.
Jose Eustacio Canales, a young child, español, age 2.
Jose Ramon Canales, a young child, español, age 1.