Hell on Wheels does not feature any identifiable transsexual characters or explore themes related to transsexual identity. The narrative focuses on the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad and the lives of its diverse inhabitants in the post-Civil War American West.

The show features strong female characters who navigate a dangerous frontier environment. However, there are no instances where a female character is depicted as victorious in close-quarters physical combat against one or more male opponents using skill, strength, or melee weapons.

Hell on Wheels is an original historical drama series. Its main characters were created for the show, and any historical figures depicted maintain their documented genders, therefore no gender swaps are present.

Hell on Wheels is an original series, not an adaptation of prior source material with established character races. Historical figures depicted, such as Thomas Durant, are portrayed by actors matching their documented race. There are no instances of characters being portrayed as a different race than previously established.