Hiram Washington Vasquez – World Independent – June 8, 1939 – "Hi" Vasquez, Pioneer, Dies at age 94 – Was Founder of La Veta - Taken by Indians When Four Years of Age - Funeral services will be held Friday for Hiram Vasquez, 94. One of Huerfano County's oldest and most respected citizens who expired at his home in La Veta Wednesday evening, culminating a residence of 76 years in that community. Vasquez was one of the few rugged pioneers who had lived thus far in the 20th century. He was born in Independence, Mo. in 1844. At the age of four years he was captured by an Indian tribe and was given to an Indian chief, who kept him for five years. Vasquez ran away from the Indian tribe and went to Salt Lake City, Utah, where he was recognized by soldiers and taken to his stepfather at Fort Bridger, Wyo. He traveled over the Rocky Mountain States with hunters and trappers and in 1863 settled in La Veta. He was one of the founders of the town of La Veta and was a partner with Col. Francisco and Henry Daigre in ranching activities. He was also associated with the late Alexander Levy in construction of the D. & R.G.W. railroad over La Veta pass. He also was affiliated with the late Fred Walsen, founder of the city of Walsenburg, in the sheep and cattle business. According to Judge Luz Gonzales, "Hi" Vasquez was the second oldest pioneer in Huerfano County at the beginning of 1939. Gonzales claims to be the third oldest pioneer and he knew Vasquez well. Vasquez was a charter member of the Walsenburg Masonic Lodge and later a charter member of the La Veta Lodge, which organization will be in charge of services at the grave. He is survived by his wife, Martha, two daughters, Mrs. Maude Coleman of La Veta and Mrs. Mary Rollins of Los Angeles; one son, Fred of La Veta. Funeral services will be held at the La Veta Methodist church Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock in the care of the Unfug-Peet Mortuary