Indeed some "clan mothers" are descended from others (although not maternally).

They have clan mothers, or main women of the leagues.

Power and wisdom went together, the clan mothers taught.

The clan mothers of this valley had an agenda for its use, and weren't about to brook interference.

And there he had been found by one who was a clan mother.

It was a great shame to be kicked out of power by the clan mothers.

For the sake of the clan mothers, do you love me, Sara?

The woman in charge of a clan was called the "clan mother".

If the "clan mothers" did not agree with any major decisions made by the chiefs, they could eventually depose them.

If even one of the five clan mothers opposed it, it could not happen.