"The Texas Medical Center: A History of the Founding Years, 1941-1980" is an unpublished photocopied typescript (232 pages) consisting of a preface, nine chapters, and a bibliography. In this manuscript, completed sometime during 1982-1983, Tinsley connects the role of local philanthropy, development of federal funding priorities, and the national escalation of focus on cancer research to explain the unique growth and renown of the Texas Medical Center.

The manuscript covers medical center development from 1941 through 1980. Although an unpublished work for hire, this manuscript reflects development of a major facet in Houston's rise as a city of international significance.