Young Clara would continue the tradition of drawing attention to the "Little Indian Town" on Cape Cod. Because she would be labeled a "first" in many political and athletic genres during the '50's and '60's, Clara would serve was the first woman selectman in Mashpee and Chief of Police, which were posts her father held. Sophisticated and fashionable, she was often featured in national magazines and periodicals. She was considered a professional golfer and beat most men she played. The Clara Keliinui Golf tournament was established in her memory as a testament to extraordinary talent, political prowess, and good old Mashpee savvy.