It was created on 1 October 1795, when the Austrian Netherlands and the Prince-Bishopric of Liège were officially annexed by the French Republic.

[4] Prior to this annexation, its territory was part of the County of Flanders.

Its territory corresponded perfectly with the present-day Belgian province of West Flanders.

The Prefect was the highest state representative in the department.

Until 1811, the Prefect also held the office of Subprefect of Bruges.