He was twelve years old when he was enrolled at the Seminary of San Luis Potosi (Seminario Conciliar Guadalupano Josefino), and he graduated in 1878, took an advanced degree in 1879, and passed his law examination there in October 1880.
The next year, he joined with Ambrosio Ramirez and Juan N. Ruelas to found the newspaper El Estandarte (The Standard) in San Luis Potosi which proceeded to publish articles critical of the government, as well as literary and historical articles, written mostly by Velázquez.
Velázquez espoused Christian social doctrine in his editorials, and encouraged others to submit articles on local history and folklore.
Velázquez made his home a gathering point for those interested in the history of San Luis Potosi, and impromptu seminars were regular occurrences.
He was a pioneer in archaeological research in San Luis Potosi, not only excavating himself, but encouraging the work of others.